HONOLULU — A tragic incident in Honolulu has resulted in the death of a sixth victim due to injuries sustained from an explosion linked to illegal fireworks during a New Year’s Eve celebration. The 30-year-old woman passed away at a local hospital early Wednesday morning, as reported by the Honolulu Police Department.

Among the deceased are a young child aged 3, alongside three women and one man. This series of explosions has reignited calls for stricter measures against the use of illegal fireworks, which have become more prevalent across Hawaii. Communities often experience disturbances from these contraband explosives, especially during the holiday season, making this incident particularly concerning.

In connection with the tragic blasts, law enforcement has detained ten individuals on various charges, including reckless endangering and multiple fireworks-related offenses. Investigators are collaborating with prosecutors to finalize charges. However, the process is complex and slow, spurred by the large number of arrests and the extensive amount of evidence that needs to be analyzed.

During their response, authorities confiscated approximately 500 pounds (227 kilograms) of unused fireworks from the site of the explosions. Police indicate that additional arrests may be forthcoming as their investigation continues.

In light of this disaster, Governor Josh Green has put forth a proposal to empower law enforcement to impose $300 fines on individuals found setting off fireworks. Furthermore, the governor suggested instituting severe penalties, including potential class A felony charges carrying lengthy prison sentences for those whose fireworks use results in severe injuries or fatalities. The state Department of Law Enforcement has requested $5.2 million from the Legislature to enhance the resources of a forensic lab and to hire new personnel to combat the growing issue of fireworks smuggling.

Following the explosions, six individuals suffering from severe burns were transported to a specialized burn facility in Arizona, as Hawaii’s only burn center was overwhelmed with patients from the incident. Unfortunately, one of these victims, a 29-year-old man, succumbed to his injuries last week.