KOKEE, Hawaii — Kauai investigators suspect arson caused two recent fires.
In recent weeks, Kauai firefighters have been battling several blazes.
The first fire, on July 15, forced the evacuations of about 200 residents in the Hanapepe-Kaumakani area, but fortunately, firefighters extinguished the fire before it reached any homes. The cause of this fire remains under investigation.
Another fire near Kapaa Bypass Road burned through 10 acres of land. Investigators determined the improper use of charging equipment, which comprised a photovoltaic panel connected to a car battery, caused this fire.
Shortly after, another fire in the Pokii Ridge area ignited, eventually burning through 1,600 acres, before firefighters contained it.
On Monday evening, fire crews were dispatched to a brush fire above Panini Place. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered an area about 40 yards by 20 yards burning, and quickly worked to extinguish the fire.
Investigators with the Kauai Fire Department, the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife, and the Kauai Police Department combed through the area Tuesday. They discovered incendiary devices in the area and suspect both the Pokii ridge fire and Panini Place fire were intentionally set.
“Arson can quickly lead to uncontrollable wildfires, endangering lives, property and the surrounding area,” said Kauai Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson in a statement. “Once a fire starts, it can rapidly spread to nearby vegetation, structures, and residential areas, causing extensive damage and the potential for injuries.”
Under the Hawaii Revised Statutes, intentionally setting a fire and recklessly causing damages to property in excess of $20,000 is a Class A Felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
“Arson is a serious crime with severe consequences, posing an immediate threat to lives, properties and the environment,” said Kauai Police Department Chief Todd Raybuck in a statement. “Perpetrators will face significant penalties, including imprisonment and fines. We will not tolerate arson. I urge everyone to consider the potential consequences for the well-being of others and our community before taking such actions.”
Kauai investigators encourage anyone with information regarding these incidents to contact KPD Dispatch at 808-241-1711 or Lt. Kennison Nagahisa at 808-241-1705 and knagahisa@kauai.gov. For those who wish to remain anonymous, they can contact Crime Stoppers Kauai at 808-246-8300, submit a tip at cskauai.org, or through the Crime Stoppers Kauai P3 Tips Mobile App, available for download on Android and Apple mobile devices.
