By Katalina Siasau and Tupou Vaipulu Jr

A person died in a major fire at Joe's Kahana Resort and Restaurant at Halaleva, on Sunday evening, 19 January.

The deceased had not been officially identified at the time of this report.

Over 30 responders attended the blaze, which destroyed the restaurant building on the shores of the Fangauta lagoon.

Deputy Fire Commissioner, Sinamoni Kauvaka told Matangi Tonga today that they received a report of the fire yesterday, at 4:27 pm. When they arrived to the scene, the restaurant at the resort was already ablaze.

After putting out the fire, the firefighters found the deceased inside the burnt restaurant. Kauvaka said the Police took over in handling the body, taking photos and also taking the body from the scene to the hospital.

The identity of the deceased has not been confirmed. Kauvaka said they were aware of social media reports that the deceased was a Chinese man, but the official investigation had not yet identitied the body.

Tonga Fire Services estimated that 80% of the restaurant building was gutted by fire. However, the fire in one building was contained.

A full investigation has been launched by Tonga Police and Tonga Fire and Emergency Services to determine and identify one confirmed death, and the cause of this major fire.

The Tonga Business Registry shows that Joe's Kahana Resort & Restaurant is owned by an individual, Mr Ming Sen TSAI. He has registered the business since mid-2014.

Deputy Fire Commissioner Kauvaka said that from 1-19 January this year, Tonga Fire has responded to 22 emergency calls, including fires.