Two Arrests Made In Connection To Deadly Aliamanu New Year's Explosion

Two arrests made in connection to deadly Aliamanu New Year's explosion

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Two suspects were arrested in relation to the deadly Aliamanu explosion on New Year’s Day, which killed four and injured dozens. On Jan. 24 at 2:30 p.m., HPD arrested a 33-year-old male and a 33-year-old female for Reckless Endangering in the First Degree, Endangering a Welfare of a Minor in the First Degree and multiple fireworks offenses.

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The suspects attended the New Year’s Eve gathering at the home where the explosion took place. While at the gathering, HPD says that they ignited illegal fireworks and allowed their three children, ages 15, 10 and 1, to ignite illegal fireworks.

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

The two suspects are accused of fireworks possession, which attorney Megan Kau says is unusual, but perhaps a sign that the government’s attitude toward fireworks is shifting.

“I haven’t seen the possession charge been brought against anybody before,” Kau said. “The government really hasn’t used the statute to charge people with possession of more than 25 pounds. So it is significant that they’re doing an investigation and using the statute.”

With the current accusations of possession and endangerment, Kau is curious why manslaughter charges have not yet been brought forward.

“The reckless endangering in the first degree tells me they had something to do with allowing the fireworks to be there. Therefore my question is why wasn’t the manslaughter charge brought out as well?” Kau said. “But if they weren’t the people that lit the fireworks, then I can see why the manslaughter charge wasn’t brought, because they didn’t cause the death of another person.”

Aliamanu residents that live near the scene of the deadly explosion are more concerned about the condition of the remaining victims rather than arrests being made.

“I would think somebody has to answer for this, but my take is I’m still worried about people that’s still injured, fighting for their lives,” said Jack Kaauwai, Jr., an Aliamanu resident. “I’m not even worried about who got arrested and everything.”

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. According to Kau, each of the crimes presented are Class C felonies, which is punishable by up to five years in prison.