Yahoo Lifestyle Dad, 29, Dies Weeks After New Year's Fireworks Explosion, Sister Says He 'Fought' for as 'Long as He Could'
Kevin Vallesteros was one of six people transported to Arizona for treatment at a burn center after the fatal explosion in Hawaii on Jan. 1
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Kevin VallesterosA fifth person has died nearly one month after a New Year’s fireworks explosion in Hawaii.
The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office announced on Tuesday, Jan. 28 that Kevin Vallesteros, 29, died in Arizona, where he was transported for medical treatment after the fatal incident, according to the Associated Press and Hawaii News Now.
Vallesteros was one of six people transported to Arizona for treatment after they were injured by the explosion on Keaka Drive in Aliamanu on Jan. 1.
In a statement, Vallesteros’ sister said her brother “fought against his injuries and infections for as long as he could,” according to Hawaii News Now.
Related: 3 Killed, 20 Injured in New Year’s Eve Fireworks Explosion in Hawaii: ‘Immense Tragedy’
“It has been a difficult 28 days for our family and we are grateful for the outpouring and kokua from the communities in Arizona and Hawaii,” she continued, “but most especially we are thankful for the utmost care and love shown by the Arizona Burn Foundation and Valley Wise Health medical workers.”
The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.
More than $8,500 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign aiming to collect donations for Vallesteros, and now, to bring him home from Arizona.
“After 28 days of relentless fighting against infections and injuries - Kevin is now at peace and resting with Heavenly Father,” wrote Bobbi-Amber Yamada, who organized the online fundraiser.
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After the incident, Vallesteros was transported to Arizona “to receive more individualized care at a burn center,” Yamada said.
He had burns on more than 80% of his body and sustained “a compound fracture on his left leg” as a result of the incident, she added.
“We appreciate you for your generosity, care and prayers,” Yamada wrote in the description of the online fundraiser. “We truly appreciate it.”
The Arizona Burn Foundation told Hawaii News Now that it will assist Vallesteros' family with funeral expenses, and can help transport the 29-year-old's body back to Hawaii.
A 3-year-old boy is also among those killed in the New Year’s incident.
Read the original article on People
