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Locals say they have been looted and robbed at gunpoint while deadly wildfires rage on the island. Maui residents are begging for a bigger response from local authorities, and question when FEMA will show up. 

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Hawaii officials urge tourists not to travel to Maui. Hotels currently are only prepared to house evacuees and first responders. 

There has been an alarming surge in crime throughout the region. 

Rescue efforts are underway to provide essential supplies and aid to the affected residents. Most people have lost everything and are fighting for survival. 

The island's already struggling residents are facing the terrifying reality of widespread looting and robberies. The devastating fires have not only ravaged the landscape but have also exposed the vulnerability of the community. And on every level they are sending an urgent cry for help.

In the wake of the fire's theft, looting, and even armed robberies are becoming commonplace. This has left Maui residents reeling from shock and frustration. Many blame the inadequate supply distribution and lack of information for the rampant crime wave. 

Jeremy Aganos, the owner of the surviving restaurant Coconut Caboose, vividly described the scene as "utter chaos," with people desperately searching for food, water, and shelter.

 The chaotic circumstances left many people without food, water, or shelter. And has prompted some residents to take uncharacteristic action, and others emphasize that some acts of theft are borne out of desperation.

 Barrett Procell, who lost his home to the fires, offers a sympathetic perspective. He argues that those resorting to looting are driven by pure survival instincts. 

The escalation of crime has also led to sharper criticism of local leadership. And many are accusing them of inaction.

Searching for the dead

The deadly wildfires have already claimed nearly 100 lives, marking it as the deadliest catastrophe in the US in over a century. Sadly, the death count is expected to be much higher. And estimates are that the death count could eventually climb to over 1,000.

A mobile refrigerated morgue was rushed to Lahaina on Monday. Officials are trying to keep the bodies cool so they can begin the identification process.

Maui Police Chief John Pelletier said that the fire damage has been so massive that each recovered body needs to be identified through DNA testing.