9 injured in Kā'anapali explosion; ATF joins investigation

Yahoo

22-02-2025

KAANAPALI, Hawaii (KHON2) — Maui Memorial Medical Center said it treated nine individuals who were injured in an apparent propane explosion that occurred in Kā'anapali on Feb. 20.The hospital said two patients were transferred to Oahu in critical condition and three are in stable condition at Maui Memorial. The other individuals were treated and released.
Multiple agencies were seen investigating The Whaler on Kā'anapali Beach on Friday with the pool area and grilling area, including the beach blocked off to the ocean.
WATCH: Maui live cam captures Kaanapali explosion, at least 7 injured
Witness videos from the incident show debris flew onto the sand.
The Whaler on Kā'anapali Beach said in a statement:
It is with deep regret that we confirm an explosion occurred at our Condominium Project on February 20, 2025. The incident tragically resulted in injuries to seven persons according to the Maui Police Department. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those injured in this tragic event.
At about 6:20 p.m. yesterday, an explosion occurred near the outdoor barbeques. Emergency services were immediately alerted and arrived on the scene promptly. The cause of the explosion is currently under investigation by local authorities. We are cooperating with the investigators and support personnel.
Our primary focus at this time is to provide support to the affected families, our guests, and our employees. We are working closely with local authorities and emergency services to ensure the safety of those who are staying at our property, our employees, and the local community.
We are fully cooperating with all relevant authorities in their investigation. We are also conducting our own investigation to understand the cause of the explosion and to ensure that such an incident does not occur again in the future.
We deeply regret this incident and extend our heartfelt condolences to those who suffered injuries and their families. We are doing everything we can to support them during this difficult time.
Maui Police have not provided an update on the investigation since 10:30 p.m., Thursday.
Police said the incident happened around 6:15 p.m. and Central Dispatch received multiple reports of an explosion at 2481 Kāʻanapali Parkway in Kāʻanapali.
MPD said when they arrived on the scene there were already multiple bystanders with medical experience providing life-saving measures and first-aid until medics and firefighters arrived.
Police added seven individuals, ranging from 18 to 74 years old, sustained injuries, and three were in critical condition with one being flown to Maui Memorial Medical Center's emergency room for further treatment.
Police said preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion may have involved liquefied petroleum gas, which supplies common area BBQs. Witness statements indicate a possible grill malfunction before the incident. The official cause remains undetermined and is under active investigation.
The Maui Fire Department said multiple grills were being fed by a single large tank on the property.
The cause is still being investigated by MPD, MFD and the ATF.
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The emergency response included 10 police officers, three fire companies consisting of 13 firefighters, a Battalion Chief, and a Fire Investigator. EMS sent four transport units, one non-transport Paramedic unit (Medic 15), and Maui Medevac.
Witnesses said the explosion shook the building and many civilians ran to assist those who were injured.
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