FBI and Maui police release new details on IED explosion in Pukalani

The FBI and Maui Police Department provided an update today with information on the explosion of an improvised explosive device (IED) in Pukalani on Thursday. The agencies jointly issued a public safety warning yesterday regarding recent reports of IEDs recovered in the Kahului and Pukalani areas. 

The incident occurred on Old Haleakalā Highway on Aug. 8, 2024 when an IED, which had been placed in a nearby trash receptacle, exploded. The explosion struck a passing vehicle, and the driver was transported to the hospital and released, according to the FBI.

“The FBI and MPD have identified and collected several IEDs which vary in size and shape, and has rendered them safe. The recovered devices have been located along roadways between Kahului and Kula, and were concealed from view in trash receptacles or other areas outside of plain view,” according to a joint news release.

The public is urged to be cautious of any unknown object. The recovered device from yesterday’s incident is described as a 7 inch by 4 inch cylinder shape. The FBI advises that forensic review is underway to determine how these devices were configured to detonate.

The FBI and MPD are urging the public to report any suspicious activity that could present a threat to public safety, such as someone leaving an object unattended in a public space. “If you see a suspicious or unknown object, especially near any street or road, do not touch, drive over, or go near it for any reason. If possible, keep others away from the area and call 911 immediately,” the agencies advise.

Reports can be made to tips.fbi.gov or 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

Authorities advise: “Any detail–no matter how small–may be useful in identifying those responsible and preventing any future threats to our community’s safety.”