New Year’s Eve fireworks explosion kills 3, injures 20 in Hawaii

A New Year’s Eve firework display in a Hawaii neighborhood quickly went wrong after three people were killed and 20 injured on Tuesday night.  

When fireworks were lit in a neighborhood in Honolulu, the large display tipped over and was aimed at the onlookers.  

One woman died at the hospital and two died on scene, while others were injured, including children, with burns and shrapnel wounds.  Police said they are investigating if charges are necessary against the person who lit the fireworks. In Hawaii, the use of aerial fireworks requires a permit.

“This is a painful reminder of the danger posed by illegal fireworks. They put lives at risk, they drain our first responders and they disrupt our neighborhood,” said Rick Blangiardi, mayor of Honolulu. “Most heartbreakingly, this tragedy was entirely preventable.” 

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green emphasized the gruesome nature of the deaths, saying the individuals had “the worst possible, war-zone injuries that took their lives.” 

Authorities said there would be stronger penalties for those who set off illegal fireworks in neighborhoods.  

More than a dozen people die from firework accidents every year in the U.S. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.