Seven persons were injured as a result of a large explosion that occurred at a grill area at a resort in Maui, Hawaii. The debris that was left behind was dispersed across the beach.
According to Hawaii News Now, the explosion that occurred at The Whaler resort on Ka’anapali Beach on Thursday night has resulted in at least three persons being in critical condition. The victims range in age from 18 to 74 years old.
“We were swimming down at the pool at the Sheraton when all of a sudden there was this enormous, earth-shaking boom,” witness David Flint said to the station who was reporting on the incident.
Locals were seen in a photograph shot at the scene assessing the damage that had occurred in the grill area. Guests at the resort were observed leaning over balconies in order to get a better look at the destruction that was taking place.
The spot where the explosion took place is only a few steps away from a pedestrian route that goes to Whaler Village, which is a destination for many members of the neighboring resort community who are interested in shopping and dining.
The explosion was described as a “miscellaneous accident” in a post that was made on Facebook by the Maui Police Department. The statement stated that “at this time, no evacuations are being conducted.”
“We ask the public to avoid the area while first responders work the investigation,” according to the announcement.
Another statement made by the Maui County Fire Department was that first responders were “on the scene of the explosion in Kaanapali and are caring for the victims.” Additionally, the department stated that “There is no additional threat.”
According to Hawaii News Now, investigators placed yellow flags on the beach to highlight debris that was sent flying from the grill area. The article also mentioned that witnesses revealed a suspected failure in the grill that led up to the explosion.
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The Whaler resort provides information on its website that states “Our luxurious condominium-style accommodations are just steps from the pristine sands and provide access to premier resort amenities and services, all infused with the heartfelt warmth of aloha.”
“Grill out in paradise at one of our granite-topped BBQ areas,” according to the announcement.
