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A tragic explosion involving illegal fireworks in Hawaii resulted in the deaths of three people and left more than 20 others injured. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on New Year's Day during a celebration at a home on Keaka Drive. According to Honolulu Police Chief Joe Logan, the explosion happened when an aerial firework, known as an aerial cake, fell over and ignited additional fireworks stored nearby.
Two women were pronounced dead at the scene, and a third woman, aged 23, succumbed to her injuries later. The identities of the victims have not been released. Over 20 individuals were hospitalized with critical injuries, including severe burns, while 10 to 15 others sustained minor injuries. Among the injured were three children.
Governor Josh Green and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi addressed the incident in a press conference, emphasizing the dangers posed by illegal fireworks. Governor Green described the injuries as akin to "war zone injuries" and stressed the need for increased penalties and enforcement to prevent such tragedies. Mayor Blangiardi echoed these sentiments, calling for stronger law enforcement and collaboration with federal and state agencies to curb the import of illegal fireworks.
The explosion has been classified as a mass casualty incident, with more than a dozen ambulances responding to the scene.
The incident has prompted officials to consider new measures to prevent future occurrences, including exploring technologies to detect illegal fireworks and implementing stricter penalties for violations. Governor Green highlighted the potential risks of uncontrolled fires, especially in dry conditions, and urged that aerial fireworks be handled only by professionals.
