A dad has succumbed to severe injuries after getting caught in a deadly fireworks explosion, which has now claimed the lives of five people.
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According to AP News, the explosion occurred on New Year's Eve in a Honolulu neighborhood. A large firework reportedly tipped over after being lit, dousing bystanders with shrapnel. At the time, the outlet reported three deaths and at least 20 injured, some critically.
Per a report by Hawaii News Now, Kevin Vallesteros, 29, was one of those severely injured by the blast. Bobbi Amber Yamada, Kevin's sister, released a statement to the news outlet.
"Kevin fought against his injuries and infections for as long as he could. It has been a difficult 28 days for our family. We are grateful for the outpouring and Kokua from the communities in Arizona and Hawaii. Still, most especially, we are thankful for the utmost care and love shown by the Arizona Burn Foundation and Valley Wise Health medical workers."
Emergency services reportedly transported Kevin to a specialized burn center in Arizona for treatment. Doctors put him in a medically induced coma, and he had burns on over 80% of his body. He was placed on a ventilator and also suffered a compound fracture to his left leg.
The Fireworks In Honolulu Were Illegal
Per a report by People, the fireworks at the New Year's Eve celebration were illegal. During a press conference, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said, "This incident is a painful reminder of the danger of illegal fireworks, which put lives at risk, drain our first responder resources, and disrupt our communities. What a tragic way to start off the new year."
Jim Ireland Honolulu, emergency services department director, described the incident as "one of the worst calls I've ever been on as far as the immense tragedy and amount of patients and severity of the injuries."
A GoFundMe Page is active, collecting donations for the family. The description describes the extent of Kevin's injuries and how 'he is now at peace and resting with Heavenly Father.' The fundraiser explains that it is collecting donations toward medical bills and bringing Kevin back from Arizona.
