A fast-moving brush fire at Holomua Road and Baldwin Avenue near Paia on Tuesday burned an estimated 380 acres. Photo courtesy Maui Fire Department

Authorities investigating the Holomua Fire that burned almost 400 acres near Paia on Tuesday say it appears the blaze was set intentionally.

According to the Maui Fire Department, the investigation has traced the fire’s origin back to two separate locations roughly 300 feet apart.

Both locations where the fire is believed to have started are along the upper portion of Holomua Road, about a mile below Baldwin Avenue in Paia.

“The near-simultaneous occurrence of separated brush fires is consistent with an incendiary classification, indicating that the fires were intentionally ignited,” the preliminary MFD investigative report said. “This conclusion is further supported by the elimination of competent accidental ignition sources within the areas of origin and the absence of evidence suggesting natural or accidental causes.”

The report adds that a separate brush fire was reported in the same area the previous night, and the close proximity of the fires suggests a potential link between the incidents.

The fast-moving brush fire was reported at 1:29 p.m. Tuesday, and lead to numerous evacuations Tuesday before a massive firefighting response got the blaze under control.

The report says investigators have so far been unable to locate any eyewitnesses to the ignition. Currently, no suspects have been identified.

The results of the investigation have been shared with Maui police. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police department via its nonemergency line at (808) 244-6400 or email MFD Fire Investigators at Fire.Investigation@mauicounty.gov.

On Thursday, Maui Fire reported the fire was 70% contained while the burned area held steady at an estimated 380 acres.

Firefighters, state officials, public works employees and others were working toward full containment of the fire and continuing mop-up efforts Thursday evening.

Additional firefighters were expected to be on the ground again Friday. Some areas remain inaccessible due to fire-weakened trees and branches.

There are no current evacuations or road closures. Baldwin Avenue has reopened.

Photo courtesy Maui Fire Department