Man arrested after illegal firework explodes under parked car in Kīlauea

A 24-year-old man was arrested Thursday morning after setting off an illegal firework that exploded beneath a parked car in a residential neighborhood on the North Shore.

The blast occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m., according to a press release from the Kaua’i Police Department.

After responding to reports of a loud explosion near a home in Kīlauea, officers spoke with witnesses who said they saw a man fleeing the scene soon after the blast.

Surveillance footage reviewed by police captured the suspect — later identified as Bronze Robson, a Kīlauea resident — igniting what appeared to be an aerial firework. The device spiraled out of control, landing under a nearby parked vehicle before detonating.

No injuries were reported, but police say the explosion posed a significant risk to people and property in the area.

Robson was later arrested for second-degree reckless endangerment and is currently being held at the Kaua’i Police Department Cellblock with bail set at $1,000.

“This type of reckless behavior puts lives and property at risk,” said Assistant Chief Darren Rose. “Illegal fireworks have no place in our neighborhoods. We urge the public to help keep our community safe by reporting dangerous or illegal activity. Your report could save lives.”

Under Hawai‘i law, possessing or using illegal fireworks is a criminal offense.

Anyone with information about illegal fireworks or related activity is encouraged to contact the Kaua’i Police Department at 808-241-1711 or CrimeStoppers Kaua‘i anonymously at 808-246-8300.