HONOLULU — A suspected gas explosion in the barbecue area of a beachside resort in Hawaii has resulted in injuries to seven individuals, three of whom are in critical condition, according to reports from hotel officials and local authorities in Maui.
The explosion occurred on Thursday evening at The Whaler, a well-known resort located on Kaanapali Beach, a favored destination for tourists featuring a series of hotels, timeshares, and rental properties situated along the pristine sands. The resort is located a few miles north of Lahaina, a town that suffered devastating damage during a deadly wildfire in 2023.
Residents in the vicinity did not need to evacuate following the incident, as indicated by the Maui Police Department. Initial investigations pointed towards liquefied petroleum gas, which powers the barbecue grills in the common area, as a possible factor in the explosion.
Those injured ranged between the ages of 18 and 74, with two critically hurt individuals being transferred to Oahu for further medical care, shared police spokesperson Alana Pico on Friday.
Footage circulated on social media depicted the explosion occurring outdoors near a swimming pool, with debris scattered across the beach area.
According to The Whaler, the incident took place in their Tower One barbecue zone. In a statement, they expressed relief that they are collaborating with the fire department to investigate the incident and promised to provide updates as more information becomes available. They emphasized that the safety and well-being of their guests, owners, and staff are their top priorities.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the precise cause of the explosion, with witnesses suggesting a “possible grill malfunction” may have contributed to the event.
This report notes a clarification regarding the property’s name; the explosion occurred at The Whaler, which is affiliated with Aston at The Whaler.
