Five People Trapped in a Car in Lahaina Rescued During Fire by Hawaii Emergency Services

It is one story of thousands. But one family caught in a white van in downtown Lahaina while the town was destroyed in the fire of 8.9.23, left a tale of fear and eventual redemption, via text messages.

"My brother's girlfriend's cousin and his family were caught in their vehicle in Maui while the wildfires suddenly erupted around them. No cell service, so Apple Emergency SOS was the only way they could get in contact with first responders. Literally saved their lives." Tweeted @Michael Miraflor.

"Five people inside a white van between ages 18-30. Outside Territorial Savings Bank, Outlets of Maui. PLEASE ADVISE PLEASE ADVISE EVERYTHING ON FIRE! 6:13 pm HST" reads the first message.

Unsure. Fire is all around us. 6:13 pm HST

All buildings around us on fire. 6:14 pm HST

Should we drive?

DRIVING. CANNOT REACH OCEAN

Visibility is zero. We are in same location Territorial Savings Bank Maui Outlets. 6:31 pm HST

Emergency Services: We are updating the fire dept trying to get someone to your location.

Five people inside a white van ages 18-30, Territorial Savings Bank, Outlets of Maui. Please advise, car is super hot... 632pm HST

We are in same locaiton have not moved, Territorial Savings Bank, 6:35 pm HST

Emergency services: WE ARE TELLING THEM HANG ON

Got it, ty. PLEASE PUT ON YOUR HAZARDS, UNDERSTAND THEY ARE EVACUATING, DISCONNECTION.