Multi-agency crews extinguish large vehicle fire at Līhuʻe scrap metal facility

Firefighters worked for several hours on Wednesday to extinguish a major fire that involved multiple vehicles at a scrap metal storage site in Līhu‘e, according to authorities.

The fire erupted at the vehicle storage site managed by Pacific Concrete Cutting & Coring, Inc., producing thick smoke visible in parts of the area.

The incident was reported shortly before 2:15 p.m., prompting a multi-agency response from the Kaua‘i Fire Department. Crews from the Līhu‘e and Kalāheo fire stations, Airport Rescue and Fire Fighters, Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 helicopter, the on-duty battalion chief, and officers from the Kaua‘i Police Department.

Firefighters arrived on scene at around 2:40 p.m.

The fire crew found several vehicles fully engulfed in flames in the scrap metal storage yard. The fire had spread to the surrounding outdoor storage areas, increasing concerns that it could expand further across the property.

Firefighters immediately launched suppression efforts and requested additional resources due to the fire’s size and the volume of smoke from the burning vehicles and scrap materials.
Authorities said firefighters worked to contain the blaze while preventing it from spreading beyond the affected area.

The fire was declared under control at approximately 4:03 p.m.

Following containment, crews coordinated with heavy equipment operators to separate and move piles of vehicles and scrap metal, allowing firefighters to reach hidden hotspots and extinguish lingering flames.

Personnel remained at the scene for several more hours, conducting overhaul operations and monitoring for flare-ups, before the incident was fully secured.

“On behalf of the Kaua‘i Fire Department, I want to extend our sincere mahalo to the Līhu‘e Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting personnel for their swift and decisive response.

“Their immediate support, including the deployment of Rescue 44 and its High Reach Extendible Turret to suppress the fire, played a critical role in bringing the incident under control more quickly and preventing further extension,” said Battalion Chief Bryan Doo.

“This response is a testament to the strong partnership between our agencies and the professionalism, skill, and dedication of the ARFF team. We are grateful for their assistance and proud to work alongside them in protecting our community.”

Firefighters cleared the scene shortly before 7:15 p.m. No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and remains under investigation. Officials have not released an estimate of the damage caused by the blaze.