A gas grill explosion at a Kaanapali Beach condo in Hawaii left seven people injured, three critically, after a Thursday evening incident that sent shockwaves through the community. The Maui Police Department confirmed the blast occurred at 2481 Kaanapali Parkway around 6:15 p.m., with victims ranging from 18 to 74 years old. Preliminary findings suggest liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) used for barbecues may have caused the disaster, amplifying concerns about outdoor cooking safety.
First responders transported one victim to Maui Memorial Medical Center for emergency care, while others received on-site treatment. Witnesses described chaos in the aftermath, with beachgoers rushing to assist injured residents.
The explosion came from a middle-floor unit—people were screaming, and smoke filled the air within seconds,a bystander recounted in livestream footage obtained by ABC News.
Investigators are analyzing these critical factors:
- Grill maintenance history and LPG tank condition
- Potential ignition sources near the cooking area
- Compliance with local propane storage regulations
This incident follows a troubling pattern of gas-related accidents, with the National Fire Protection Association reporting over 8,900 grill fires annually in the U.S. Hawaii’s fire safety officials urge residents to:
• Inspect propane connections before use
• Keep grills 10 feet from structures
• Never leave active flames unattended
As recovery efforts continue, the damaged condo remains closed for structural assessments. Authorities advise avoiding the area while crews secure the site. This developing story underscores the hidden dangers of routine activities—a stark reminder that proper equipment handling can mean the difference between safety and catastrophe.