A judge has ordered the Hawaii attorney general’s office to turn over all documents, interviews, and data collected by an outside team hired to investigate last summer’s Maui wildfires. Attorneys representing plaintiffs in the lawsuits over the August fires had filed a motion requesting this information, which the state initially refused to provide, claiming it would jeopardize the investigation. However, the judge compelled the state to release the materials, despite concerns from the state that it would prompt witnesses to change their stories. The investigation was initially not to exceed $1.5 million but has now increased to $4 million due to delays.
The investigation into the Maui wildfires, which killed 101 people, revealed a broad communication breakdown that left authorities uninformed and residents without emergency alerts. The investigation did not draw conclusions about the actions taken by officials, leading to concerns about whether people were advised that they were not obligated to answer questions during interviews. The state’s concerns about the release of information leading to external influences on the analysis were countered by the judge’s assertion that withholding the materials would delay litigation. With over 400 lawsuits involving thousands of plaintiffs, it is important for people to have their day in court to seek justice and determine any legal breaches of duty.
During a hearing, the state deputy attorney general expressed concerns about the release of information potentially influencing witnesses and the integrity of the investigation. The judge disagreed, stating that people changing their stories and external factors influencing the analysis are part of the truth-seeking process of litigation. The judge noted the importance of the investigation in determining what county and state agencies must do to prevent a similar tragedy from happening in the future. With several lawsuits scheduled to go to trial in November, it is crucial for the information gathered during the investigation to be made available to lawyers representing the plaintiffs.
An attorney representing Maui County suggested that the investigative process was tainted, as investigators did not inform people of their rights before questioning them. The state argued that they were trying to protect the integrity of the investigation to create a better future for Lahaina and its residents. The judge emphasized the importance of addressing the past as well, given what had occurred on the island as a result of the wildfires. He stressed that litigation would determine if there were any legal breaches of duty and ensure that those affected by the disaster have their grievances heard and resolved. The attorney general’s office is reviewing its options and will decide on the appropriate course of action in response to the judge’s order.
