The FBI and Maui police are urging residents to report any suspicious activity following a recent explosion caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) and the discovery of several other IEDs in the area.

On August 8, an explosion occurred on Old Haleakala Highway when a 7-inch by 4-inch IED, concealed in a trash receptacle, detonated after hitting a passing vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was hospitalized as a result of the blast.

Witness Jessica Weatherholt described the incident to local station KITV, stating, "I saw a flash in the sky and I thought it was gonna be lightning. 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."

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She further detailed the aftermath, noting the extensive damage to the white SUV hit by the device: "The driver's side window was shattered, the frame was bent. All along the entire body was like holes and shrapnel."

Since the explosion, multiple IEDs have been found and secured by the FBI and the Maui Police Department (MPD) from various locations, including trash receptacles and other inconspicuous spots along roads between Kahului and Kula. Authorities have rendered these devices safe.

The FBI's press release emphasizes the importance of public vigilance: "The FBI and MPD continue to urge 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."

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Forensic analysis is ongoing to determine the detonation mechanisms of the devices. The FBI noted that IEDs can resemble small, makeshift containers.

Both the FBI and MPD are actively investigating the incident and working to identify those responsible. The driver of the SUV was released from the hospital following the incident.

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