The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled Monday on Hawaiian Electric Company's liability in litigation stemming from the catastrophic Lahaina fire of August 8, 2023, that devastated the former capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and killed more than 100 people.

The case, *Burnes v. Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc.*, involves Nova Burnes and other plaintiffs who sued Hawaiian Electric, along with Kamehameha Schools, the State of Hawaii, and Maui County following the deadly wildfire. ACE American Insurance Company and other insurance companies intervened as subrogation plaintiffs and are now appealing a circuit court decision.

Justice Eddins authored the court's opinion in the case, which was decided by Acting Chief Justice McKenna, Justice Eddins, and Justice Ginoza. Circuit Judge Morikone served in place of Justice Devens, who was recused, and Circuit Judge Tomasa was assigned due to a vacancy on the court.

The August 8, 2023 fire marked one of the most devastating natural disasters in Hawaii's modern history. The blaze destroyed hundreds of properties and historic sites in Lahaina, forcing businesses to close and leaving thousands of residents displaced. The fire's rapid spread through the historic town raised questions about utility company responsibilities and emergency response protocols during extreme weather conditions.