Honolulu medical examiner identifies 2 killed in illegal fireworks explosion
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The Honolulu medical examiner on Friday identified two of three victims killed in a massive fireworks explosion at a New Year’s Eve celebration in Aliamanu.
They are Nelie Ibarra, 58, and Jennifer Van, 23.
Officials said the cause and manner of death in both cases are still pending.
The third victim’s identity has not yet been released.
A GoFundMe for Ibarra that’s now been taken down said Ibarra’s “infectious laughter and boundless generosity touched everyone she met.”
A GoFundMe organized by Van’s sister, Tammy, states: “Jennifer’s infectious and outgoing personality touched many people, especially with her loud mouth and kindness. She was a devoted sister, daughter, and friend who selflessly supported our family financially and emotionally, especially through our most difficult times.”
Van had been working at Central Pacific Bank since 2019, the bank confirmed in a statement, and was assistant manager of CPB’s Wahiawa branch.
Arnold Martines, CPB chair, president and CEO, said, “We were deeply saddened to learn of Jennifer’s passing. Her kindness, dedication, and vibrant energy positively impacted everyone who had the pleasure of working with her. The entire CPB ohana joins me in expressing our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
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The explosion killed three people and caused severe injuries to many more.
Six of the injured will be flown to Arizona on Saturday morning, sources told Hawaii News Now.
The patients will be picked up from Straub Medical Center and the Queen’s Medical Center then taken to Hickam Air Force Base and a waiting C-17 plane. Honolulu Police and EMS will escort the patients to the base.
Officials said the explosion was caused by what’s called a fireworks “cake” with roughly 50 illegal aerial rockets in it. It tipped over and fired into a carport that set off more fireworks inside.
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