The idyllic Hawaiian island of Maui is grappling with an alarming threat — improvised explosive devices (IEDs) left along public roads.
The situation escalated on August 8, 2024, when one such device detonated on Old Haleakala Highway, injuring a passing motorist.
The explosion, which occurred when a 7-inch by 4-inch cylindrical IED concealed in a trash receptacle detonated, sent shockwaves through the community.
Witness Jessica Weatherholt described the event to local station KITV: “I heard the loudest explosion that I’ve ever heard in my entire life. It sounded like an attack. It sounded like somebody was dropping bombs.”
“The driver’s side window was shattered, the frame was bent,” she reported. “All along the entire body was like holes and shrapnel.”
The FBI and MPD have since recovered several IEDs varying in size and shape along roadways between Kahului and Kula. These devices were strategically hidden in trash receptacles or other areas out of plain sight, raising concerns about public safety.
In a joint statement, the FBI and MPD urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
“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,” the statement warned. “If possible, keep others away from the area and call 911 immediately.”
Authorities are currently conducting forensic reviews to determine the detonation mechanisms of these devices. The FBI has noted that some IEDs may resemble small, makeshift baskets.
As the investigation continues, the incident has left residents shaken. Weatherholt’s chilling realization underscores the random nature of the threat: “If we would’ve left like 10 or 15 minutes earlier to pick up our daughter from work, that could’ve been us.”
The FBI and MPD are actively seeking information to identify those responsible for planting these devices. They encourage the public to report any suspicious activity to tips.fbi.gov or 1-800-CALL-FBI, emphasizing that even small details could be crucial in preventing future incidents and ensuring community safety.
You can watch the local news report on the scary situation here —