Fourth Victim Confirmed in Honolulu Fireworks Tragedy
A tragic fireworks explosion on New Year’s Eve in Honolulu’s Salt Lake neighborhood has claimed its fourth victim, a 3-year-old boy named Cassius Ramos-Benigno. According to the Honolulu Police Department, the child succumbed to his injuries early Monday morning while being treated at a local hospital. The devastating incident has left the community in mourning, with the death toll now standing at four. In addition to the fatalities, around 24 people sustained injuries, many of them critical.
The Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed the identities of two other victims from the explosion: 58-year-old Nelie Ibarra and 23-year-old Jennifer Van. Authorities have yet to release the name of a third woman who also lost her life in the tragic event.
Injuries and Ongoing Medical Efforts
The fireworks explosion left six critically injured individuals requiring advanced care. Over the weekend, these patients were airlifted to the Diane & Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center for specialized treatment. Dr. Kevin Foster, the center’s director, provided an update on Monday, confirming that all six have undergone surgery and are currently in stable condition. The victims are being closely monitored as they continue their recovery journey.
Local hospitals have also been managing the aftermath of the explosion, providing care for those with less severe injuries. Emergency services and first responders worked tirelessly in the chaotic aftermath of the incident, emphasizing the need for heightened fireworks safety measures in future celebrations.
Separate Fireworks Accident Claims Another Life
As the community grapples with the Salt Lake explosion, another fireworks-related tragedy struck Honolulu on New Year’s Day. A 20-year-old man named Jayson Ramos lost his life in a separate accident in Kalihi. City officials have expressed concerns about the dangers posed by illegal fireworks and the lack of proper safety precautions during such celebrations.
Authorities are continuing their investigations into both incidents, aiming to determine the causes and identify potential violations of fireworks safety regulations. These back-to-back tragedies have prompted calls for stricter enforcement of laws surrounding fireworks use and sales in Honolulu.
The series of deadly fireworks explosion incidents has left a somber start to the new year, highlighting the need for greater awareness and accountability when it comes to festive activities involving fireworks.
