Firefighters hose down remaining hot spots inside a vacant home that was destroyed by fire today in Keolu Hills. The cause of the fire at 1080 Kupau St. is under investigation. Bruce Asato • The Honolulu Advertiser

Some witnesses who were at the home shortly after the fire was reported about 5:30 a.m. told firefighters there was a strong smell of gas coming from the house.

Fire Battalion Chief Lionell Camara said there were no injuries to firefighters who battled the blaze. Units from Waimanalo, Kailua, Olomana, 'Aikahi and Kane'ohe responded two the two-alarm blaze, bringing it under control in about 20 minutes.

Camara said the home was being renovated and that no one was inside when the fire broke out. He said there was no significant damage to adjacent homes. A bin filled with demolition debris sat on the street in front of the smoldering remains of the home this morning as firefighters continues to hose down hot spots.

An older, outboard fishing boat parked next to the home's carport appeared to have been scorched during the blaze, which sent acrid black smoke drifting throughout the neighborhood.

Capt. Emmit Kane, a Fire Department spokesman, said the garage area was filled with tires, differentials and other automobile parts. He said a tall hedge between the house that burned and surrounding homes may have prevented the "radiant heat" coming from the fire from damaging the surrounding homes.