A pyrotechnics worker was seriously injured and two other pyrotechnics professionals suffered minor injuries Wednesday night due to an accident during a show sponsored by the City of La Puente.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news about the Lucky Jimenez fireworks display in La Puente,” the city said in a statement on social media. “A dedicated pyrotechnic technician was seriously injured as a result of the fire and explosion. . Two other technicians suffered minor injuries.
“We ask that you offer your thoughts and support to the family during this challenging time.”
The statement added that those injured “put on a great Fourth of July show for the community.”
The incident apparently caused the show to be suspended. “We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding,” officials said.
The city is promoting the event online as a “family-friendly beer garden celebration” with live music and food, starting at 4 p.m. at La Puente Ballpark.
One witness, Tiffany Angulo, said on Facebook: “The fireworks definitely blew too low. Twice! I literally said, God forbid anyone get hurt.” “No matter which company we buy fireworks from, I hope we don’t do it again.
“We saw the explosion and asked the staff if anyone was injured,” Maggie Perez Martinez said in response to La Puente’s statement. “They said, ‘No. Everyone is fine. I’m sorry to hear that.
Vincent A. Barela added: “I’m very sad to read this. We were there and the show ended so suddenly. I hope the runner can recover quickly and make it to the end.” Injuries are kept to a minimum.
NBC4 reports Wednesday night showed small fires burning on the ground amid pyrotechnic equipment. From a news helicopter, firefighters and police appeared to be staying away from the potentially dangerous area for the time being.
One social media poster, Shirley Garay-Bermudez, viewed the incident as a sad but teachable moment: “This explains why fireworks are dangerous…pyrotechnics personnel have been trained Train, do wear protective gear, and they know anything can go wrong, which is why the fire department and paramedics are on scene during emergencies to pray for all those injured.
