Honolulu, HI – Apartment Fire on Kalena Dr Prompts Emergency Response

Honolulu, HI (January 5, 2026) – Honolulu firefighters responded on Saturday, January 3, to a residential building fire at a two-story apartment complex in Kalihi. According to the Honolulu Fire Department, crews were dispatched just before 10:40 a.m. to a building located on Kalena Drive.

Firefighters arrived within minutes and encountered an active fire inside the apartment structure. Crews immediately began suppression efforts while ensuring the safety of anyone inside the building. One resident managed to exit the apartment on their own before firefighters arrived.

Emergency Medical Services evaluated that person at the scene for mild injuries. Firefighters also rescued two dogs and one cat from inside the building, safely removing the animals during the response.

Fire crews brought the blaze under control by approximately 10:56 a.m. Officials confirmed that the fire was fully extinguished by 11:04 a.m. No additional injuries were reported.

Investigators stayed on scene after the fire to examine the apartment and its surrounding areas. Officials have not yet released information about how the fire started. The Honolulu Fire Department stated that the investigation into the fire’s origin remains active.

We wish a full recovery to the injured victim. 

Residential Fires in Honolulu

Residential fires can start unexpectedly and spread quickly, especially in multi-unit buildings. In Honolulu, apartment fires often raise concerns about safety conditions, building maintenance, and fire prevention measures. Understanding potential causes can help residents recognize risks and stay alert.

Some possible causes investigators may examine in residential fires include:

• Electrical issues such as faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, or aging electrical panels
• Cooking-related incidents involving unattended stoves or appliances
• Malfunctioning household appliances that overheat or spark
• Improper use or storage of flammable materials
• Smoking materials that ignite furniture or trash
• Building safety issues, including outdated fire suppression systems

Even when a fire does not cause severe injuries, exposure to smoke or heat can still lead to health concerns. In some cases, residents may suffer a burn injury or respiratory issues that require medical attention after leaving the scene. Pets can also experience smoke exposure that needs veterinary care.

Hawaii law allows individuals affected by residential fires to explore legal options when negligence or unsafe conditions contribute to the incident. A qualified Honolulu personal injury lawyer can help explain whether property owners, maintenance companies, or other parties may bear responsibility. These situations often involve complex questions about safety standards, inspections, and building codes.

Fires can also bring financial challenges. Temporary housing costs, replacement of damaged belongings, and lost income may follow an incident. Legal guidance can help affected residents understand what compensation or insurance coverage may apply to their situation.

While investigators work to determine the cause, residents should prioritize health, safety, and documentation of any losses. Medical evaluations and photographs of damage may help support future claims if issues arise later.

If you or someone in your household was affected by a residential fire in Honolulu or anywhere across Hawaii, support is available. At Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, we assist those dealing with the aftermath of serious incidents, including fires and related injuries.

We take a thoughtful approach, helping clients understand their options and next steps. To speak with a lawyer about your situation, call Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner at (808) 537-2525 for a free consultation.

Notes: Our team of writers uses secondary sources such as news reports, local and state police incident reports to create these posts. We have not independently verified all of the facts surrounding this particular accident so if there is any information that is incorrect, please contact Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner right away so that we can update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.

Disclaimer: This post is not a solicitation for business. The photo used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene. None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. If you are injured in an accident, seek medical assistance immediately.