Fireworks Likely Cause of Kīhei Fire: Two Homes Destroyed, Four Others Damaged

July 4, 2018, 8:42 PM HST
* Updated July 4, 9:17 PM

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Fireworks is likely to blame for an afternoon fire that destroyed two homes and damaged four other residences in Kīhei, Maui on the Fourth of July. One fire fighter also suffered an injury and was taken to the hospital for treatment during the incident.

The incident was reported at 3:59 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4, 2018 behind homes on Kawailani Circle. Maui Fire Department, Assistant Chief of Support Services, Val Martin said that while enroute, firefighters were informed that the rear of these homes were on fire.

Fire officials say the cause of the fire is believed to be accidental, caused by fireworks. AC Martin said witness heard children playing with fireworks behind the homes immediately before the fire began. Fireworks remnants were also found in the area.

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Total damages for all the homes exceed $1 million, but total damages are still being tallied.

Residents of the homes are being assisted by the American Red Cross and a shelter had been set up by the Maui Emergency Management Agency at the Kīhei Communty Center.

AC Martin said, “The Department of Fire & Public Safety does not support or endorse the use of fireworks; however, when used, fireworks need to be under the supervision of a responsible adult and must comply with the laws of its use.”

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Five engines, one ladder, one rescue, two tankers and one Battalion Chief responded to the incident.

The Hawaiʻi law on fireworks can be found here.