GA Mom's Son Loses Home, Businesses In Hawaii Fires: Report

JOHNS CREEK, GA — A Johns Creek mother recently told Atlanta News First her son, who has been living in Hawaii for almost 15 years alongside his wife and two children, lost nearly everything in the deadly Hawaii wildfires.

The fires began spreading last week, killing 96 people and threatening Maui communities. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said more people could be found dead, the Associated Press reported Monday.

Rebecca Fincher told Atlanta News First her son, Dave Fincher, has been living with his family in Lahaina, Hawaii, for nearly 15 years. The metro Atlanta mother said her son lost his home and two of three of his businesses in the wildfires.

A GoFundMe with a target goal of $100,000 has been established to benefit the Fincher family. As of early noon Monday, the fundraiser had gathered more than $21,000.

RELATED: Hawaii Governor Warns Scores More Could Be Dead In Maui Wildfires

According to the GoFundMe, the wildfires left people without shelter, food and water. Organizer Reid Fincher noted Dave Fincher and his family were able to escape the fires.

Reid Fincher added Dave Fincher's Mala Ocean Tavern restaurant survived the fires. Dave Fincher also owns Down the Hatch and Breakwall Shave Ice.

"The harrowing ordeal started quickly and with little warning. As fires sparked in the town below, Dave went to go help try to extinguish the flames and help others escape. At some point in the chaos, he was separated from his jeep and forced to go on foot through the flames and smoke as the town turned to ashes around him," read the GoFundMe.

"He quickly realized there was no stopping the destruction so he, with the help of his friend, Mike, rushed back up the hill only to find his home fully engulfed. With no way to continue toward the house, they felt their way through the smoke and embers and rushed northward until they were able to get free of the flames. With all communications down, he was unsure as to the location and wellbeing of his wife and family. Finally, after 12 fearful hours of searching, he was able to find his family safe in a parking lot north of Lahaina."

According to the GoFundMe, it "will take many years to rebuild and recover" Dave Fincher's three restaurants.

A message on Mala's website asks for community donations.

"Mahalo nui to all that have reached out to show their support to our Māla Ocean Tavern Ohanas, we appreciate all of the love, support and aloha in this time of heartache and hardship. We plan to support our team in any way and are raising funds for all of the businesses in Hana Hou Hospitality. Follow the link to find out more and donate. With love and aloha," read the message.

Read Rebecca Fincher's full interview with Atlanta News First here.