A recent brush fire on Hawaii Island has once again raised alarm about the continued risk of wildfires potentially caused by utility infrastructure. On the evening of Tuesday, July 1, 2025, flames broke out near the 31.5-mile marker on Highway 19 (Hawaii Belt Road) near Ookala, prompting lane closures and traffic disruptions in both directions.
According to Hawaii Police, the fire was reported shortly after 5:00 pm, and early indications suggest that damage to a utility pole may have contributed to or been caused by the blaze. While no evacuations have been ordered, officials are urging the public to avoid the area and use alternate routes as crews continue to assess the situation.
Utility-Sparked Wildfires Are Still Happening and With Deadly Consequences
This incident is another stark reminder of how hazardous and deadly aging or poorly maintained utility infrastructure can be, especially in dry, windy conditions common across the islands.
The 2023 Lahaina wildfire on Maui stands as one of the deadliest wildfire disasters in US history, killing over 100 people and destroying much of the historic town. That fire was primarily caused by downed power lines, including a utility pole identified as “Pole 7A” that snapped and sent sparks into dry brush. Additional contributing factors included other damaged poles and uninsulated wires, which allowed the fire to spread rapidly across the landscape.
Despite increased scrutiny and public outcry following the Lahaina tragedy, similar risks remain, and they continue to threaten Hawaii’s communities.
Investigations into fires like this one near Ookala are critical, not only to determine the cause but also to establish accountability. Utility companies are legally required to inspect and maintain equipment, especially in high-risk fire zones. If investigators find that the utility pole failed due to neglect or insufficient safeguards, legal action may follow from both individuals affected and from state or county authorities.
“We’ve seen firsthand how destructive utility-sparked fires can be, and how often they could have been prevented,” says Brett Schreiber, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber personal injury law firm. “It’s unacceptable that residents across Hawaii are still facing this kind of danger. Our firm is committed to helping victims hold utility companies accountable and recover from the damage they’ve suffered.”
Legal Help for Fire Victims in Hawaii
When utility companies fail to maintain their equipment or poorly manage vegetation and safety protocols, they may be held liable for the destruction that follows. If you or your family has been affected by a wildfire or infrastructure-related fire, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Property damage or total loss
- Evacuation-related expenses
- Smoke damage and air quality-related health issues
- Emotional distress and loss of sense of safety
- Business interruption or agricultural losses
Singleton Schreiber has successfully represented thousands of fire victims across the Western United States and has filed some of the largest utility-related fire cases to date. We maintain a strong presence in Hawaii and are currently monitoring this recent fire near Ookala.
To learn more about your legal rights and how we may be able to help you, contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
