Arizona Burn Center Rallies to Aid 6 Fireworks Accident Victims in Hawaii

A deadly fireworks explosion on New Year’s Day in Honolulu has resulted in three fatalities and over 20 injuries. In response to the incident, six critically burned victims are being transported to the Diane & Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center at Valleywise Health in Phoenix for specialized care.

The explosion reportedly occurred due to an illegal fireworks display. A tipped firework ignited nearby explosives, causing a catastrophic chain reaction. Hawaii’s medical facilities were unable to accommodate the extensive needs of the victims.

Dr. Kevin Foster, Director of Burn Services at the Arizona Burn Center, detailed the urgent request for assistance from Hawaii. “We are beyond our level of resources. We need help,” was the message from Hawaii’s medical team, Foster recounted. The patients, all in their 20s, have suffered severe burns, with some covering up to 90% of their bodies.

Foster highlighted the gravity of such injuries: “A large percent total body surface area burn like this is a life-changing, life-threatening, life-long injury.” These individuals are expected to spend two to six months in the hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries each week. As they are transported on a U.S. military C-17 plane, this method of transfer, while not common, has been deemed necessary for urgent care.

The transfer is set to take place this weekend, and upon arrival, Dr. Foster and his team will assess the patients and prepare them for surgery. He emphasized that prompt medical attention can have a significant impact on recovery outcomes.

Foster also cautioned about the dangers associated with fireworks, regardless of safety measures. “Anything that catches on fire, anything that blows up, anything that shoots from one place to another, has the potential to cause injury,” he stated. Prevention remains the essential goal to mitigate such accidents in the future.

Family members of the victims are expected to arrive from Hawaii early next week, providing support during this challenging time.