Five teens severely burned at Kodiak bonfire are recovering in Anchorage with strong support.

Five teenagers from Kodiak are currently hospitalized in Anchorage due to severe burns sustained in an explosion during a beach bonfire on November 10. The incident occurred after a 50-gallon fuel drum was thrown into the fire at White Sands Beach, a popular gathering spot approximately 11 miles from Kodiak. Authorities have arrested a teenage boy in connection with the incident.

The explosion injured eight individuals, with five requiring medical airlift to Anchorage. The burns are serious enough that those injured may need extended hospital stays, ranging from three weeks to a month. Families of the victims have set up GoFundMe accounts to assist with medical costs.

Kodiak Island Borough School District’s superintendent, Cyndy Mika, is taking measures to support students returning to school after the traumatic event. Special care, medical supplies, and counseling services are being arranged as they anticipate more students may require assistance due to witnessing the explosion.

This tragic incident has spurred conversations around adolescent safety and responsible behavior. Alaska State Troopers encourage parents statewide to discuss the serious consequences of actions following this incident, reminding communities to prioritize safety.

Daily News reporter Tess Williams contributed.

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