An explosion at a Hawaii resort has left at least seven people injured following a suspected grill malfunction.
Authorities received numerous reports of an explosion that occurred around 6:15 p.m. at Kāʻanapali Beach, Maui, according to a statement from the Maui Police Department. The incident took place at The Whaler resort, where the ages of the injured range from 18 to 74. Three of those injured are in critical condition, with one individual having been airlifted to Maui Memorial Medical Center for treatment.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosion may have involved liquefied petroleum gas related to a grill malfunction. However, the official cause is still under investigation. Debris was seen projecting from the building, and photographs captured significant damage as first responders worked at the scene.
The explosion prompted a significant emergency response, including 10 police officers and 13 firefighters, among others. There is currently no threat to the public, and evacuations have not been necessary. Authorities have advised residents and visitors to avoid the area as investigations continue.
While the investigation is ongoing, authorities assure that the public faces no immediate danger and are actively examining the situation.
