HONOLULU — A Kauai resident died following a fireworks explosion on New Year’s Eve in Hawaii as many others were injured across the state in fireworks-related incidents, authorities said.
The Kauai Police Department said Kapa‘a resident Dexter Ibaan, 34, was attempting to light a firework Thursday around 8:30 p.m. when it apparently malfunctioned and exploded in his hand, Hawaii News Now reported Friday.
Firefighters and paramedics attempted lifesaving efforts while Ibaan was being transported to Wilcox Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead. The nature of his injuries was not disclosed.
On Oahu, authorities said at least six people were administered medical treatment following fireworks-related incidents, including three children who suffered serious injuries.
Police reported one of the children, an 11-year-old boy, was taken to a trauma center after suffering an eye injury from an apparent fireworks explosion, Hawaii News Now reported. The child was not identified and his condition was not immediately known.
The Honolulu Police Department said some of the reported incidents involved illegal fireworks. Police said the department confiscated 1,500 pounds of illegal fireworks on Oahu throughout December as people prepared to celebrate the start of the new year.
On Maui, at least two people suffered serious fireworks-related injuries, including a 25-year-old man who injured his groin, authorities said.
It is unclear if any injuries were reported on Hawaii island.