Three people were killed and 20 injured when a New Year's Eve fireworks display near Hawaii was canceled Tuesday night.
During a fireworks display near Honolulu, a large display tipped over and was directed at onlookers.
One woman died in hospital, two others died at the scene, and others, including a child, suffered burns and shrapnel injuries. Police said they were investigating whether charges should be filed against the person who set off the fireworks. In Hawaii, a permit is required to use aerial fireworks.
“This is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illegal fireworks. They endanger lives, deplete first responders, and disrupt neighborhoods,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. . “Most heartbreakingly, this tragedy was completely preventable.”
Hawaii Governor Josh Green emphasized the tragic nature of the deaths, saying each man had suffered “the worst injuries that could have cost a person's life on the battlefield.”
Authorities announced tougher penalties for those who set off illegal fireworks in neighborhoods.
More than a dozen people die each year in fireworks accidents in the United States.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
