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07 Jan 2025

Fireworks accident on new Years Eve killed four and injured 20

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A tragic explosion of fireworks on New Year’s Eve at a Honolulu home on hawaii, has claimed four lives, including a 3-year-old boy, and injured more than 20 people. 

Three women were killed initially, and six others remain hospitalized in Arizona with severe burns over 45-80% of their bodies. All six are on breathing tubes, five in medically induced comas, and face months of recovery.

Dr. Kevin Foster of the Arizona Burn Center highlighted the psychological and physical toll, noting that the scars and limitations from burns are lifelong injuries. Patients will likely face infections and post-traumatic stress.

On New Year's Eve 2024, a catastrophic fireworks explosion occurred in the Aliamanu neighborhood of Honolulu, Hawaii, resulting in four fatalities and over 20 injuries. The deceased include two sisters, 58-year-old Nelie Ibarra and 23-year-old Jennifer Van, along with a woman identified as "auntie Lita," and a 3-year-old boy named Cassius Ramos-Benigno.  People

The incident transpired when a lit bundle of aerial fireworks tipped over, igniting additional fireworks stored in crates, leading to a massive explosion.  Associated Press

The blast inflicted severe burns on many victims, with six individuals, aged between 20 and 30, sustaining burns over 45% to 80% of their bodies. Due to the limited capacity of Hawaii's burn unit, these six were transported to the Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix for specialized treatment.

Dr. Kevin Foster, director of the Arizona Burn Center, indicated that the patients are in critical condition, with five in medically induced comas and requiring breathing assistance. The recovery process is expected to span six months to a year, with a high risk of infections and potential post-traumatic stress disorder. 

In response to the tragedy, Hawaii's leaders have intensified calls to crack down on the state's illegal fireworks trade, advocating for enhanced enforcement and stricter penalties. Governor Josh Green highlighted the seizure of substantial quantities of illegal fireworks in recent years, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance.  CBS News

The incident has placed significant strain on local medical facilities. Straub Benioff Medical Center in Honolulu admitted ten patients from the blast, marking it as the largest mass casualty event they have handled, surpassing even the 2023 Maui wildfires. The hospital continues to care for nine patients, necessitating additional staffing to manage the intensive care requirements. 

This tragic event has prompted renewed scrutiny of Hawaii's fireworks regulations and enforcement, as the community grapples with the aftermath of one of the most devastating fireworks-related incidents in the state's history.

For a visual overview of the incident, drone footage capturing the explosion's aftermath is available.