Police are investigating a brush fire in South Kohala on Sunday that burned approximately 50 acres along Kawaihae Road, prompting its closure.
At approximately 12:25 p.m. Sunday, officers responded to a report of multiple small fires on Kawaihae Road near the 65- and 66-mile markers. Upon arriving on scene, officers observed heavy smoke on the roadway, which created a hazard due to the poor visibility.
Kawaihae Road was subsequently closed from the Queen Ka‘ahumanu intersection to Anekona Road while Hawaii Fire Department personnel attempted to extinguish the fire. The road was reopened at 6:23 p.m.
The cause of the fires has yet to be determined.
Police ask anyone with information on this investigation to contact Officer Landon Takenishi at (808) 887-3080 or by email at Landon.Takenishi@hawaiicounty.gov.
Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.