2 of 3 Victims of Deadly New Year’s Fireworks Explosion in Hawaii Were Sisters: Reports

Mar. 15, 2025

Nellie and Lita.Photo:Gofundme

Gofundme

PEOPLE can confirm that 58-year-old Nelie Ibarra and 23-year-old Jennifer Van werekilled in the incident that left three people dead and over 20 others injuredat a home in the Aliamanu neighborhood of Honolulu.

Hawaii governor Josh Green described the explosive used as a “cake bomb” — a term for a homemade explosive device, in apress conferenceon Thursday, Jan. 2. Green described the scene as a “war zone,” saying, “People had traumatic injuries so badly that brain material was across the sidewalk from the ferocity of the explosion.”

“While information is limited, we can confirm that our beloved auntie Lita has passed away, Junior (her son) also sustained extensive fire-related injuries, her 3-year-old grandson has suffered the most extensive injuries with most of his body burned, and Charmaine (her daughter) is currently in the ICU with burns beyond recognition,” the GoFundMe states.

“Cedric (son), his girlfriend and their four children were able to escape with minor to moderate injuries, however, parts of their home and many of their belongings they resided in perished in the explosion,” the description adds.

Nellie and Lita.Gofundme

“As we try to come to terms with this heartbreaking loss, we are also focused on supporting those who survived the incident and recovering from their injuries. The emotional, physical, and financial toll on our family is overwhelming as we navigate this difficult and painful time,” the GoFundMe explains.

Jennifer Van.Gofundme

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“She was a devoted sister, daughter, and friend who selflessly supported our family financially and emotionally, especially through our most difficult times,” the GoFundMe adds.

source: people.com