A tragic fireworks-related incident in the Salt Lake-Aliamanu neighborhood near Honolulu has claimed two lives and injured 22 others, according to local reports. Honolulu Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene, as reported by Hawaii News Now.
The Honolulu Police Department issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Major Incident in the Salt Lake area. HPD, HFD, and EMS are responding to a major incident in the area of Keaka Drive. Please avoid the area as first responders provide medical and other assistance.”
This devastating event follows another fireworks accident on New Year’s Eve in the Kalihi area, where a 14-year-old boy suffered serious injuries after a firework exploded in his hand. Emergency personnel treated him at the scene before transporting him to a trauma center for further care.
These incidents highlight the ongoing dangers associated with fireworks and underscore the importance of exercising caution, especially during holiday celebrations. Authorities continue to urge residents to prioritize safety and adhere to local regulations.
Earlier today, at least 159 arrests were made in Brussels during its New Year’s Eve celebration, police said. Authorities also took action in over 1,7000 incidents.
“Brussels firefighters also had to intervene for 30 burning cars in various parts of the city. In some places, several cars [were] burned at the same time. The fire was also put to three electric bikes or scooters. But firefighters also had to intervene for 54 more fire starts in garbage cans, containers, trees or brush,” Le Soir reported, citing information provided by Brussels firefighters spokesman Walter Derieuw.
Brussels Fire Department Spokesperson Walter Derieuw told Politico that the situation was “really crazy.”
“We were there to help, and we were getting Molotov cocktails thrown at us.”
According to the outlet, authorities implemented measures to reduce New Year’s Eve crime, including placing a curfew on those younger than 16 in Anderlecht.
In Antwerp, Belgium, 49 people were arrested. Others were hospitalized from fireworks injuries.
