A pyrotechnics worker was seriously injured and two other fireworks professionals suffered minor injuries Wednesday night due to a mishap during a show sponsored by the city of La Puente.
“We are very saddened to share news about the Fortunate Jimenez fireworks show in La Puente,” the city posted in a statement on social media. “A dedicated pyrotechnician was seriously injured due to a misfire and explosion. Two other technicians suffered minor injuries.
“We ask for your support and thoughts for their families during this difficult time.”
The injured “were giving the community a wonderful Fourth of July display,” the statement added.
The incident apparently forced the show to be suspended. “We thank the community for their patience and understanding,” officials said.
The city had promoted the event online as an “outdoor family celebration” that included live music and food, with festivities beginning at 4 p.m. at the La Puente baseball field.
One witness, Tiffany Angulo, said on Facebook: “The fireworks flew too low. Twice! I literally said, ‘God forbid anyone gets hurt. ’ Whatever company we bought the fireworks from, I hope we don’t do this again.”
“We saw the explosion and asked the staff if anyone was hurt,” Maggie Perez Martinez posted in response to La Puente’s announcement. “They said, ‘No, everyone is okay.’ I am so sorry to hear this.”
Vincent A. Barela added: “It is very sad to read this. We were there and the show ended abruptly. I hope the producers of the show recover quickly and with minimal injuries.”
An NBC4 report Wednesday night showed a small fire on the ground among the fireworks equipment. From the news helicopter, it appeared that firefighters and police officers were temporarily staying away from the potentially dangerous area.
One of the people who posted the message on social media, Shirley Garay-Bermudez, called the incident a sad and teachable moment: “This explains why fireworks are dangerous… The pyrotechnicians are trained and wear protective equipment and are aware that anything can go wrong, which is why the fire department and paramedics are on scene in case of emergency. We are praying for all those injured.”
