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2 people arrested in connection with deadly Āliamanu fireworks explosion

A view of the home where a New Year's Eve fireworks explosion killed and injured people, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
Marco Garcia/AP
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FR132414 AP
A view of the home where a New Year's Eve fireworks explosion killed and injured people, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)

Two people were arrested on Jan. 24 in relation to the deadly fireworks explosion in Āliamanu on New Year's Eve.

The blast killed five people. The latest death was announced on Jan. 28. Dozens of people were injured, five of them remain at Valleywise Health Arizona Burn Center for treatment.

The Honolulu Police Department arrested a 33-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman for reckless endangering in the first degree, endangering the welfare of a minor in the first degree, and multiple fireworks offenses.

According to officials, the suspects attended the New Year’s Eve gathering at the home on Keaka Drive where the explosion took place.

HPD said the pair ignited illegal fireworks and allowed their three children, ages 15, 10 and 1, to ignite illegal fireworks as well.

The 1-year-old was injured in the explosion and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, before being released.

The investigation began three weeks ago, and more than 20 witnesses were located and interviewed. Authorities also examined digital evidence and hours of surveillance video.

The suspects were released pending further investigation.

Officials said the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests are expected.

Pixie Clay is HPR's deputy managing editor, working with the station's team of reporters to bring accurate, impactful, and compelling news stories to our audience through broadcast and online platforms.
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