An explosion occurred at The Whaler Resort on Kaanapali Beach in Maui on Thursday (February 20), injuring seven people. The blast, which took place just before 6:15 p.m., sent several individuals to hospitals, with three suffering critical injuries. One person was airlifted to Maui Memorial Medical Center, according to the Maui Police Department.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion may have involved liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) used for common area BBQs. Witnesses reported a possible grill malfunction before the incident. Despite the severity of the explosion, no evacuations were conducted, and authorities have stated that there is no additional threat to the public.
The Maui County Fire Department confirmed that all victims have been transported from the scene, and officials are continuing their investigation. They have requested that the public avoid the area while the investigation is ongoing. The resort, located about a 40-minute drive from Kahului, is a popular destination on the northwest part of the island.