An explosion at a Hawaii beachside resort injured seven people, including three in critical condition, and left a pile of debris in a popular tourist area of west Maui, according to police and video footage.
Preliminary investigations suggested liquefied petroleum gas, which supplies barbecue grills in the resort’s common area, was involved in the explosion, the Maui Police Department said.
The explosion Thursday night left a pile of debris at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach, a popular tourist area where a string of hotels, timeshares and rental properties line white sands. It's a few miles north of downtown Lahaina, which almost completely burned in a deadly 2023 wildfire.
People in the surrounding area did not have to evacuate, the Maui Police Department said, and preliminary investigations suggested liquefied petroleum gas, which supplies barbecue grills in the resort's common area, was involved in the explosion.
“Witness statements indicate a possible grill malfunction before the incident,” police said in a statement.
“The official cause remains undetermined and is under active investigation.”
The seven injured people ranged in age from 18 to 74, police said. Video of the area shared on social media shows an explosion happening outdoors near a swimming pool, and that debris was scattered near the beach.
The Whaler said the blast happened at their Tower One barbecue area.
“Thankfully, we are actively working with the fire department to investigate the situation, and we will share updates as soon as more information becomes available,” the statement said. “Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our owners, guests, and team members.”
Police said the official cause is under investigation, and witnesses had indicated “a possible grill malfunction” before the explosion.
