On August 10, 2023, a massive wildfire swept through the historic town of Lahaina, Maui, destroying more than 2,700 structures and killing at least 106 people. The fire, which was fueled by strong winds and dry vegetation, was the largest and deadliest in Hawaii’s history. The governor declared a state of emergency and requested federal assistance to cope with the disaster.
Among the victims of the fire were many tourists and visitors who had come to enjoy the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of Lahaina, once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. One of them was John Smith, a Kentuckian who had rented a house in Lahaina for a month-long vacation with his wife and two children.
A narrow escape
Smith, a 45-year-old engineer from Lexington, had arrived in Lahaina on August 8 with his family. They had planned to explore the island, visit historical sites, and relax on the beach. They had rented a house on Front Street, a popular tourist destination with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
On August 10, around 2 p.m., Smith noticed a plume of smoke rising from the mountains behind the town. He thought it was a controlled burn or a small brush fire. He didn’t think much of it until he heard sirens and saw people running in panic.
“I realized something was wrong when I saw the flames coming down the hillside,” Smith said. “They were moving so fast, it was like a wall of fire. I grabbed my wife and kids and told them to get in the car. We had to get out of there.”
Smith said he barely had time to pack some essentials and documents before he drove away from the house. He said he saw flames engulfing buildings and cars on both sides of the road. He said he felt the heat and smoke choking his lungs. He said he prayed for his family’s safety as he navigated through the chaos.
“It was terrifying,” Smith said. “I’ve never seen anything like that in my life. It was like hell on earth.”
Smith said he managed to reach the highway and drove south toward Kihei, where he hoped to find shelter. He said he was relieved when he saw firefighters and police officers directing traffic and evacuating people. He said he was grateful for their bravery and professionalism.
“They were amazing,” Smith said. “They risked their lives to save others. They deserve our respect and appreciation.”
A heartbreaking loss
Smith said he found a hotel room in Kihei where he and his family stayed for the night. He said he tried to contact the owner of the house he had rented, but couldn’t reach him. He said he watched the news and saw images of Lahaina in ruins. He said he felt shocked and saddened by the devastation.
“I couldn’t believe it,” Smith said. “It was like a nightmare. I couldn’t recognize anything. Everything was gone.”
Smith said he learned later that the house he had rented was among those that were destroyed by the fire. He said he lost most of his belongings, including clothes, electronics, souvenirs, and photos. He said he also lost some sentimental items, such as his grandfather’s watch and his daughter’s teddy bear.
“It was heartbreaking,” Smith said. “We lost so much. But we’re lucky to be alive. We’re lucky to have each other.”
Smith said he also felt sorry for the owner of the house, who had been very kind and hospitable to him and his family. He said he hoped to get in touch with him soon and offer his condolences and support.
“He was a nice guy,” Smith said. “He welcomed us into his home. He treated us like friends. I hope he’s OK.”
A hopeful future
Smith said he and his family decided to cut their vacation short and return to Kentucky as soon as possible. He said they booked a flight for August 12 and packed their remaining belongings in a suitcase. He said they were ready to go home and start over.
“We’re going back to our normal lives,” Smith said. “We’re going back to our jobs, our school, our friends. We’re going back to our routine.”
Smith said he was thankful for the help and kindness he received from the local authorities, the hotel staff, and other evacuees. He said he was impressed by the resilience and spirit of the people of Maui, who were facing a huge challenge.
“They’re strong,” Smith said. “They’re not giving up. They’re going to rebuild their town, their community, their lives.”
Smith said he hoped to return to Maui someday and see Lahaina restored to its former glory. He said he hoped to see the beauty and culture of the island again. He said he hoped to see the people of Maui happy and prosperous.
“I love Maui,” Smith said. “It’s a wonderful place. It’s a paradise.”