Brush Fire in Kunia Forces Evacuation of Hundreds

A massive brush fire that broke out in the Kunia area on Tuesday, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate, is now under investigation by the Honolulu Police Department, who have opened a first-degree arson case. Fire investigators have determined the fire was intentionally set, and a thorough investigation is underway to identify the culprit. The fire burned approximately 600 acres, with officials reporting 60% containment by 6 p.m. on Tuesday and 70% containment by 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and no structures were affected.

Key Takeaways:

• The Honolulu Police Department has opened a first-degree arson investigation case after determining the fire was intentionally set.
• The fire forced the evacuation of several hundred people from Kunia Camp and Head Start, which was canceled before 6 p.m. on Tuesday when the fire was 60% contained.
• The fire burned approximately 600 acres, with six "air assets" from the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) focusing water drops on the mauka side of the fire until sundown on Tuesday.
• Crews on the ground addressed hotspots from the base of the mountain to Kunia Road, with the fire being 70% contained by 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
• The Honolulu Fire Department, state, and federal partners resumed firefighting operations early Wednesday morning, with HFD focusing on addressing hotspots.
• No injuries or structures were affected by the fire, with officials reporting no arrests pending the investigation.

Statistics:

• 600 acres of land burned by the fire.
• 60% containment of the fire by 6 p.m. on Tuesday.
• 70% containment of the fire by 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
• Approximately several hundred people evacuated due to the fire.
• No injuries reported due to the fire.

Sources:

• Honolulu Police Department bulletin.