An early morning fire that started from an Asian owned store near the Salelologa wharf lit up the skies in the area and destroyed several buildings within the compound. 

Villagers and bystanders reported the blaze started after 2 am. Strong winds contributed to rapidly spreading the fire to nearby buildings and damaging vehicles parked near the structure. 

The Asian owned shop where the fire is believed to have started is being leased out to business operators who were left speechless as they witnessed the building going up in flames. 

Bystanders claimed one fire truck arrived after 3 am but was “too little too late” as the blaze had become uncontrollable by then and had done substantial damage. 

Livestreams from members of the public who were waiting for the early morning ferry showed the fire lighting up the dark morning as people stood and watched with little help they could do to prevent its spread. 

The raging fire destroyed two business buildings and was put out before it could reach the neighbouring Blue Bird building. 

According to witnesses, they saw three cars within the compound going up in flames.  

Fire Emergency and Services Authority (FESA) Commissioner, Tanuvasa Petone Mauga said an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire. 

Tanuvasa noted generally, when a fire breaks out late at night, there is always suspicion over its cause, but such can only be finalised at the conclusion of their investigation. 

He added that the FESA received reports about the fire at 3 am and responded to it, stressing he was unable to provide more information until he receives a report from Savaii.