A colossal blast in the grill area of a high-end resort in Maui, Hawaii, resulted in seven injuries and debris littering the beach. The explosion at The Whaler resort on Ka'anapali Beach on Thursday night left three people in critical condition, with the victims’ ages ranging between 18 and 74.
Witness David Flint described the event as a "massive, earth-rumbling boom," while he was swimming at a nearby pool. Locals and resort guests were observed assessing the damage in the grill area, with some leaning out from balconies for a clearer view of the havoc.
The explosion site is just a short walk away from a path leading to Whaler Village, a popular shopping and dining spot for resort guests. The Maui Police Department announced that no evacuations were necessary at the time, characterizing the explosion as an "unspecified accident" and urged people to steer clear of the area for the ongoing investigation.
As the investigation continues, initial reports suggest that a grill malfunction might have led to the explosion. The Maui County Fire Department confirmed that there is no further threat and that first responders are providing care for the victims. They have marked the beach with yellow flags to indicate the debris from the grill area.
Promising luxurious condominium-style accommodation just steps from pristine sands, The Whaler resort is renowned for its premier amenities and services, including its granite-topped BBQ areas.