Verified GoFundMe pages shared to help victims of New Year’s fireworks explosion
Verified GoFundMe pages are being shared to support those impacted by the deadly New Year’s fireworks explosion in Aliamanu / Salt Lake on Oʻahu. Officials described the horrific scene in which a cake type firework was set up on a table which fell over and shot into an area where other fireworks were located, setting off the explosion. The explosion killed at least three individuals and left more than 20 people in serious or critical condition.
Prayers & Support for Charmaine
Charmaine Benigno was among those severely injured in the incident and will require extensive medical care as she faces a long road to recovery. She is the mother of boys, Jasyah (4), Clyde (2), and has a longtime boyfriend, Jacob.
Melissa and Kevin’s Long Road to Recovery
Two other victims, identified simply as Melissa and Kevin were also transported to area hospitals following the incident. “Kevin is currently in the hospital fighting for his life,” according to a GoFundMe account created to support their recovery. Melissa will have to be flown to the mainland to receive the medical care she needs, according to the latest update.
Other verified GoFundMe accounts include the following:
Aid for Tommy’s Burn Treatment
Tommy and his girlfriend are currently in the hospital fighting for their lives, according to a GoFundMe update. He sustained severe injuries, with burns to 62% of his body, and will require extensive medical care.
Aid Abbey’s Healing: Urgent Burn Care Needed
Abbey and her boyfriend are currently in the hospital fighting for their lives, according to a GoFundMe update. She reportedly sustained severe injuries with burns to 67% of her body and will require extensive medical care.
Sammi is currently receiving treatment at Queen’s Intensive Care Unit. He has extensive burns to 72% of his body, according to a GoFundMe update. He and several others are being transported to Arizona to receive specialized medical care.
Honoring Nelie’s Loving Spirit
Ritchelyn Peterson, stepdaughter of Nelie Turalba Ibarra, 58, one of the victims who died in the tragic fireworks explosion said: “My stepmom had the biggest heart. She was very loved by many, including me and my dad.”
Tammy Van, the sister of Jennifer Van, 23, who died during the incident, said the family is heartbroken.
“Jennifer’s infectious and outgoing personality touched many people, especially with her loud mouth and kindness. She was a devoted sister, daughter, and friend who selflessly supported our family financially and emotionally, especially through our most difficult times,” family members said.
Arnold Martines, Central Pacific Bank, Chairman, President & CEO issued a statement regarding the tragic loss of Van, who was described as a beloved member of the CPB ʻohana since 2019. Jennifer was the assistant manager of the Wahiawa Branch.
“We were deeply saddened to learn of Jennifer’s passing. Her kindness, dedication, and vibrant energy positively impacted everyone who had the pleasure of working with her. The entire CPB ʻohana joins me in expressing our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult time,” said Martines.
*This story will be updated with more links as accounts are verified.
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