Kaua‘i firefighters extinguish 12-acre brush fire in Anahola – arson suspected

Kaua‘i Fire Department firefighters extinguished a 12-acre brush fire early Monday morning.

No injuries were reported, and no structures were damaged. However, first responders advised homes along Pilipoli Road to evacuate as a precaution.

“The fire included over 40 abandoned vehicles, which created additional fire hazards and toxic fumes to our fire personnel and residents,” said KFD Chief Michael Gibson. “Vehicle owners must dispose of their vehicles properly instead of abandoning them – especially in remote areas with brush.”

Shortly after 10 p.m. on Sunday, firefighters were dispatched to a brush fire reported near Kukuihale Road and Pilipoli Road in Anahola.

Firefighters with the Kapa‘a and Kaiākea fire stations, Tender 1, Rescue 3, the on-duty Battalion Chief, and the Kaua‘i Police Department responded to the incident.

According to a preliminary report, KFD personnel arrived on the scene and discovered 12 acres of brush on fire, which included over 40 abandoned vehicles, tires, and trash. While firefighters were positioned along Pilipoli Road to defend homes from the fire, KPD personnel advised those living along the road to evacuate as a precaution. After fire crews controlled the fire and later extinguished the blaze, fire personnel conducted a perimeter check and watered down the area.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Arson is suspected, according to reports. If anyone has information about the fire, contact Acting Capt. Kennison Nagahisa with the Kaua‘i Police Department at 808-241-1705 or knagahisa@kauai.gov. If anyone witnesses illegal dumping, please call KPD Dispatch at 808-241-1711.

The scene was cleared shortly before 2:30 a.m. Monday.

On Monday, firefighters returned to the scene later in the day to monitor the area. With assistance from the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife, fire crews put out the remaining hot spots.