The historic Lahaina town’s devastating wildfires in Hawaii last month has now led to a significant lawsuit. Harold Wells, father of one of the victims, is taking on the state of Hawaii, the county of Maui, Hawaiian Electric, and the island’s major landowner, Bishop Estate. This lawsuit marks the first of its kind against the state relating to these wildfires.
Wells alleges that the risks were evident, and preventive measures like proper vegetation clearance and electrical grid management weren’t undertaken. His daughter, Rebecca Rans, was one of over 115 people who perished in the most deadly U.S. wildfires in over 100 years.
Late last month, the county noted that 388 individuals are still unaccounted for.
The Maui wildfire lawsuit asserts that landowners, including Bishop Estate, the state, and the county, were negligent in their duty to manage dry vegetation, which would have minimized wildfire risk. Furthermore, Hawaiian Electric is accused of not shutting down its electrical equipment amidst extreme winds, triggering the fires.
Hawaiian Electric, already in legal hot water with around 12 civil lawsuits for negligent equipment mismanagement, responded to a county lawsuit. They stated that their power lines were off for a significant period before the second fire started, which was reportedly uncontrollable by Maui’s fire department. Investors are also suing the utility, alleging non-disclosure about its wildfire prevention measures.
Were you or a loved one affected by the Maui wildfires? Contact Justin for Justice now to claim for wrongful death or seek financial compensation for damages and losses. We are available 24/7 to take your call. Consultation is free, and we won’t charge any fees until we win.
