Parents arrested in Aliamanu New Year's fireworks explosion

Honolulu police have arrested two individuals, Ruben T. Mateo and Jewel Ann Quines Cabras, both 33, in connection with a deadly New Year's Day fireworks explosion in Aliamanu that resulted in four fatalities and dozens of injuries, including a 3-year-old boy. The suspects face charges of reckless endangering, endangering the welfare of a minor, and multiple fireworks offenses after they and their children were reportedly involved in igniting illegal fireworks during a party. The explosion occurred when a fireworks 'cake' fell on its side, igniting additional fireworks and causing a large blast. The investigation involved interviews with over 20 witnesses, examination of digital evidence, and hours of surveillance video review, with more arrests anticipated. The tragic incident has prompted calls for stricter regulations on fireworks, with proposals for harsher penalties for those causing serious injury or death. Currently, some victims, severely burned, remain in medically induced comas at a burn center in Arizona.