Hawai'i Island Police has initiated an investigation into the brush fire that ignited in Ka‘ū, following the determination by investigators that its origins raised suspicions, according to a press release.
"During their investigation, detectives determined that shortly after the fires started, a male operating a green all terrain vehicle (ATV) was seen leaving the area of Mill Camp Road," the release stated. "The identity of the male is unknown at this time. Police believe that the fires in Pāhala are not related to the wildfires in the North and South Kohala Districts."
The cause of the fires is yet to be determined, according to the police department. The second fire on the east side of Mill Camp Road is believed to have originated from an unattended cooking fire. Both fires burned approximately a quarter acre in size on either side of the road.
"An incendiary device was found on the roadway in the area where investigators believe the wildfire originated," Detective Donovan Kohara wrote in a report. "Both fires were quickly brought under control and extinguished by Hawai'i Fire Department personnel. No injuries were reported and no property loss was sustained as a result of these wildfires."
Anyone who may have information regarding the wildfires on Mill Camp Road are encouraged to contact Kohara at 808-960-3118, or via email at donovan.kohara@hawaiicounty.gov. Alternatively, information can be reported to the Hawai'i Police Department's non-emergency line at 808-935-3311. Anonymous information can be reported through Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.