A New Year's Eve celebration took a tragic turn after a massive explosion, caused by what appears to be illegal fireworks.

It left at least three people dead and over 20 people hospitalized in critical and serious condition.

First responders raced to a home in the Aliamanu community of Honolulu shortly after midnight.

Police said two women were pronounced dead at the scene, and a third woman later died from her injuries.

They said based on a preliminary review, it appears that a person lit multiple aerial fireworks in the driveway of a home near the garage.

And some of those fell into crates containing additional fireworks that set off a massive explosion.

Officials said they are coordinating efforts to stop the import of illegal fireworks into harbors and airports.

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi is saddened at the unnecessary loss of life and suffering.

“No one should have to endure such pain due to reckless and illegal activity. This incident is a painful reminder of the danger posed by illegal fireworks. They put lives at risk, they drain our first responders and they disrupt our neighborhoods,” said Blangiardi. 

The mayor added they need to shut down the pipeline of illegal fireworks entering the Hawaiian islands.