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Two weeks after the deadliest wildfire in over a century swept through Lahaina, Maui, authorities are struggling to determine how many people perished and how many are still missing. More than 800 individuals remain unaccounted for, which presents significant challenges in terms of identification and reunification efforts. This situation mirrors what happened after the 2018 wildfire in Paradise, California, where authorities published a list of the missing in the local newspaper. This helped identify many people who had survived but were listed as missing. Maui authorities have chosen not to publicize their list, citing concerns about privacy rules and traumatizing families. As of now, 115 deaths have been confirmed.

There are conflicting accounts of the number of missing individuals. Hawaii Governor Josh Green stated that more than 1,000 people remained unaccounted for, while Maui Mayor Richard Bissen reported a number of 850. During President Joe Biden’s tour of the affected area, White House homeland security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall estimated the number to be between 500 and 800.

The American Red Cross has been generating its own list of missing persons, separate from law enforcement’s efforts. They cross-check names with emergency shelter registration lists, hospitals, and social media to locate individuals. So far, they have successfully completed around 2,400 requests for reunification or welfare updates out of the over 3,000 received.

Identifying human remains after wildfires can be a difficult and lengthy process. Some bodies may have been cremated, leaving no bones for DNA identification. The debris removal and excavation process can also complicate recovery efforts. Butte County experienced a similar situation during the Paradise wildfire, with detectives working tirelessly to narrow down the list of missing individuals. Ultimately, they were able to locate all but one person.

Many people affected by the Maui wildfire are hoping for a list of the missing to aid in their search for loved ones. However, limited cell service in the area may make it less effective. The situation on Maui is constantly evolving, and families who have gone through similar tragedies, such as the 9/11 terror attacks, are following the news and empathizing with the victims and their families.

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