HONOLULU — Following the tragic explosion of illegal fireworks in a Honolulu neighborhood during New Year’s Eve celebrations, the number of individuals arrested has now reached a total of ten.
Further arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues. The most recent individuals taken into custody include a 32-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, both charged with reckless endangering, endangering the welfare of a minor, and various fireworks-related offenses. Additionally, a 29-year-old man faces similar allegations regarding the welfare of a minor and multiple fireworks violations, while a 28-year-old woman is also being considered for charges regarding endangering a minor’s welfare. These arrests were announced by police on Friday evening.
This devastating incident resulted in the deaths of three women, one man, and a 3-year-old boy, with approximately 20 others sustaining injuries. The explosion was triggered when a lit bundle of mortar-style aerial shells tipped over, launching into crates filled with unlit fireworks, which led to a rapid series of blasts.
Earlier, three couples had already been apprehended in connection with the incident. Authorities have not disclosed whether any of those arrested are the boy’s parents or if they include any of the injured parties.
In recent years, the use of illegal fireworks — including aerial displays commonly utilized in professional shows — has become a growing issue in Hawaii. Residents frequently engage in setting off these fireworks throughout the year, especially during the holiday season, often in densely populated neighborhoods.
Last week, police revealed they had seized 500 pounds (equivalent to 227 kilograms) of unused fireworks from the explosion site.
The investigations have been handed over to the Honolulu Department of the Prosecuting Attorney. Law enforcement officials noted they are collaborating with prosecutors on the appropriate charges, but the process is lengthy due to the number of suspects, the considerable amount of evidence to be analyzed, and the testing of the fireworks involved.
