Firefighter in Kawaihae truck accident still out

One of the two firefighters hurt in an accident on Nov. 13 while heading to a field fire in Kawaihae remained out on extended medical leave Thursday.

The firefighters were stopped in a fire truck near mile marker 65 in an area of heavy smoke, first responders said. They were struck by a container truck at 1:15 p.m.

While other firefighters sought to control the blaze, the two were taken to North Hawaii Community Hospital for treatment.

Reported at 1:13 p.m., firefighters had the fire under control by 3:38 p.m., although it was still considered ongoing at 11:55 p.m. Friday. The fire department estimated that a total of 220 acres burned. The land is owned by Parker Ranch.

The other firefighter, who officials did not identify, has returned to work.

The truck remains out of service and the accident is still under investigation.