HONOLULU (KHON2) — On Tuesday, Aug. 12, the Honolulu Fire Department said they were called to Kunia at around 8:45 a.m. The Honolulu Police Department was not far behind with their notification coming in at 9:30 a.m.
A brush fire at Kunia Loa Ridge Farmland had everyone scrambling to get the blaze under control.
And while many fires that occur do not have witnesses to tell the tale. This one did.
According to HPD, there was a witness who reported seeing a “a male suspect standing near the brush before setting it on fire.” The police said the suspect fled the scene after setting it.
He was identified as driving a dark-colored, four-door sedan with known make, model and license plate, said police.
Police said the suspect was also physically identified by the witness.
According to HPD’s witness, the man was described as being a male who stands at approximately 5’9″ and having a stocky build.
While there were no injuries and no structural damages reported due to the fire, officials said they have opened an investigation into the arson event.
During the fire, the City and County of Honolulu issued a closure notification.
According to the City, Kunia Road was closed in both directions between Lyman Gate (Schofield Barracks) and Anonui Street due to the hazardous conditions caused by a brush fire.
They said emergency crews were responding and that drivers needed to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
HFD said they were able to extinguish the fire by 11:30 p.m. that evening.
You can click here to see the HFD alert, here to see the HPD alert and here to see the City and County of Honolulu traffic alert.
HPD has requested that anyone with any information about this fire to contact them by
- Calling 911.
- Contacting Crimestoppers at (808) 955-8300.
- Using the P3 tips app.
- Stopping by any police station.
The investigation has been opened and officials are asking for your help in identifying the person believed to be the arsonist.