On This Page
Class Action Lawsuit Filed Against Hawaii Utility Company Over Maui Wildfires
Hawaiian Electric is facing a class action lawsuit that alleges downed power lines operated by the utility company could have contributed to the deadly Maui wildfires. The lawsuit alleges that Hawaiian Electric failed to de-energize the lines, despite warnings from the National Weather Service.
Preceding the fires, Maui was experiencing powerful winds, resulting in a High Wind Watch and a Red Flag Warning. The lawsuit alleges Hawaiian Electric failed to initiate a public power shutoff plan. The plan would have intentionally cut electricity to areas where wind conditions could cause lines to fall and spark fires.
Further, the lawsuit alleges Hawaiian Electric and its subsidiaries did not de-energize their power lines even after they knew some poles and power lines had fallen.
At this time, though, the cause of the fire has not been confirmed.
The class action names:
- Maui Electric Company, Limited (MECO)
- Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc. (HECO)
- Hawaiian Electric Light Company, Inc. (HELCO)
- Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (HEI)
At Least 96 Confirmed Wildfires
The wildfires by-in-large caught residents of Maui by with little warning. While evacuations were issued, the short timeline left many unable to safely flee from the island.
On August 8, an emergency was declared for the island, resulting in the Hawaii National Guard being activated. The following day, a state of emergency was declared for all of Hawaii.
On August 10, President Joe Biden issued a federal major disaster declaration, activating federal assets to assist.
Despite efforts, 96 people were confirmed dead as of August 14. Unfortunately, the death toll is expected to rise as recovery teams begin to search structures and homes.
What Resources Are Available to Victims?
Officials and local businesses and non-profits are working to provide shelter and aid to those affected. The following resources are reported to be available to those impacted by the fires.
Shelters:
- War Memorial Gymnasium (700 Halia Nakoa Street, Wailuku)
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1300 Maui Lani Parkway, Kahului)
- King Cathedral Church (777 Maui Veterans Highway, Kahului)
- Grace Bible Church (635 Hina Avenue, Kahului)
- South Maui Community Park Gymnasium (1401 Liloa Drive, Kihei)
- Hannibal Tavares Community Center (91 Pukalani Street, Makawao)
Health Clinics:
- Lahaina Gateway Shopping Center (305 Keawa Street, Lahaina)
- Napili Plaza (5095 Napilihau Street, Lahaina)
- Lahaina Civic Center (1840 HI-30, Lahaina)
Food and Supplies:
- King’s Cathedral (777 Maui Veterans Highway, Kahului)
- Calvary Chapel South Maui (320 Ohukai Road, Kihei)
- Napili Plaza (5095 Napilihau Street, Lahaina)
- Lahaina Gateway Shopping Center (305 Keawa Street, Lahaina)
Clean Water:
Potable water is available. Bring a clean water container (5 gallons maximum capacity):
- Water buffalo tanker at Crater Road
- Water buffalo tanker at Copp Road
- Water buffalo tanker at Kula Fire Station (50 Calasa Road, Kula)
- Water buffalo tanker at Rice Park (5700 Kula Highway, Kula)
- Water buffalo tanker at Kula Community Center (E. Lower Kula Road, Kula)
- Water buffalo tanker at Keokea
Gasoline:
- Ohana Fuiels/Minit Stop (333 Dairy Road, Kahului)
- Gateway Shell (27 Hoohui Road, Lahaina)
Were You Harmed by the Maui Wildfires?
If you or a loved one suffered injuries or damages as a result of the Maui, wildfires, contact Thomas J. Henry Free Case Review.
Thomas J. Henry is investigating claims related to:
- Personal injury
- Emotional distress
- Death
- Property loss
- Property damage
- Loss of employment
- Lost wages
Simply fill out a contact form or call our law firm to start your claim and receive a Free Case Consultation. At Thomas J. Henry Law, our Maui wildfire lawsuit attorneys are available 24/7, nights and weekends.
Se habla español.
Thomas J. Henry has experience handling large class-action and mass tort litigation. We have represented tens of thousands of clients across the United States, and we have the experience and resources to handle your claim with the dedication and efficiency you deserve. Do not wait, call now.
