A brush fire in a vacant Kihei lot over the weekend is now being investigated as possible arson, with a Lahaina wildfire survivor describing a terrifying flashback.

• Maui firefighters responded Saturday night to a brush fire in a vacant lot near condos on South Kihei Road.
• A 75-year-old Lahaina wildfire survivor who had just moved back to Maui the night before said he heard what sounded like an explosion, then saw flames already reaching treetop height and spreading fast.
• He compared it to a gasoline bomb going off, saying the fire grew huge within seconds and triggered painful memories of losing his home and friends in the 2023 Lahaina fire.
• About two acres burned with no injuries or property damage, but fire officials say early signs suggest the fire may have been set intentionally.
• The witness handed over his video of the fire to investigators.

Outlook: Maui fire officials are continuing to investigate the cause, with a possible arson case developing.