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PHOENIX — In response to a devastating fireworks explosion that occurred during New Year’s celebrations in Honolulu, the U.S. military transported six injured individuals to an Arizona burn center, as Hawaii’s only facility faced capacity constraints.
The Honolulu Police Department reported that illegal fireworks triggered a series of explosions around midnight in the Salt Lake neighborhood of Honolulu. The incident transpired after a multi-tube aerial cake firework tipped over, launching other fireworks across the party.
Three women lost their lives in the immediate aftermath, and over 20 individuals sustained serious injuries. Tragically, a 3-year-old boy later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital, raising the total death toll to four, as confirmed by reports from Honolulu Civil Beat and Hawaii News Now.
On Monday, USA TODAY solicited comments from the Honolulu Police Department regarding the incident.
According to the Arizona Burn Center, the six survivors arrived late Saturday evening in Phoenix. All are in their 20s and 30s, suffering from extensive burn injuries, as stated by Dr. Kevin Foster, the center’s director.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green noted that the military’s airlift of the victims was necessary for “follow-on medical care,” due to the severity of their injuries.
Green expressed his condolences in a statement on X, emphasizing the resilience of the survivors and their families during this challenging time.
‘Almost everybody has multiple projectile injuries’
The only burn center in Hawaii is situated on Oʻahu, which has limited capacity. Dr. Michael White, along with Foster, explained that the Arizona Burn Center has the necessary resources and expertise to accommodate the victims.
Foster highlighted that, despite their role in handling patients from Hawaii, they also have a significant number of local patients to care for, as it is one of the largest burn facilities in the U.S.
Governor Green authorized the use of a C-17 military aircraft for the transport, which landed at Sky Harbor International Airport. Phoenix fire crews coordinated efforts to ensure the safe transfer of the victims to the burn center.
Each of the six patients underwent emergency procedures before their transfer, as they faced severe burn injuries. They will require extensive medical attention over the coming months.
Foster noted that the injuries were compounded by flying debris caused by the bomb-like blasts of fireworks, affecting nearly everyone involved.
According to White, there is optimism regarding the survivors’ chances for recovery, though they will need months of specialized treatment.
Honolulu fire chief: ‘It truly looked like a war zone’
Early on January 1, Honolulu Police described the incident as a “fireworks-related incident with multiple casualties.” The explosions took place in a residential neighborhood, resulting in two immediate fatalities and further injuries to over 20 others.
During a press briefing, Police Chief Joe Logan provided insights into the party dynamics that unfolded leading to the catastrophic event. A 50-shot firework cake, when improperly ignited, caused the fiery disaster.
Logan stated that the firework tipped over and ignited nearby explosives, leading to extensive damage and panic.
Describing the aftermath, Honolulu Fire Chief Sheldon Hao remarked on the chaotic scene, likening it to a war zone. Videos circulated on social media depicted chaotic explosions and billowing smoke, showcasing the extent of the devastation.
Most injuries stemmed from burns and shrapnel wounds, described as “gruesome” by emergency services officials.
Investigations are ongoing, with police indicating the potential for criminal charges against those involved in igniting and supplying the illegal fireworks.
Hawaii leaders urge action against illegal fireworks
Following the tragedy, Hawaii’s leadership has emphasized the need for strict enforcement against illegal fireworks, which have long posed safety threats in the state. Reports indicate a trend of increasing illegal fireworks incidents, resulting in injuries.
Despite prior confiscations of illegal fireworks, local authorities have struggled to trace their origins. Both Governor Green and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi plan to implement more rigorous penalties and bolster law enforcement efforts to curb illegal fireworks.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illicit fireworks,” stated Mayor Blangiardi at a recent press conference. He underscored the preventable nature of the tragedy created by the rampant illegal firework use.
Fireworks, deemed inherently dangerous, should be handled by professionals only, as uncontrolled use can lead to severe injuries and fatalities, as highlighted by experts.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported eight deaths and approximately 9,700 injuries linked to fireworks in 2023, underscoring the continuing risks associated with their misuse.
Contributing: Claire Thornton, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Hawaii fireworks explosion victims were flown to Arizona burn center
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