News Summary
A 15-year-old boy is hospitalized following a fireworks explosion in Newberry, SC, caused by three teenagers combining fireworks in a shed. Emergency responders quickly extinguished the fire, which injured two others. The incident has raised concerns about firework safety ahead of the July 4th holiday and is currently under investigation by SLED.
Newberry, SC
A 15-year-old boy sustained severe injuries following a fireworks explosion in Newberry, South Carolina, on Tuesday afternoon. The incident, which is currently under investigation, took place on Epting Street when three teenagers combined fireworks in a dangerous manner within a shed behind a residence.
Emergency responders received reports of a loud explosion, which neighbors described as sounding similar to a bomb, followed by crackling noises from the fireworks. Upon arriving at the scene, Newberry Fire Chief Gene Shealy observed that the shed was ablaze with fireworks continuing to discharge. Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire swiftly, bringing the situation under control by approximately 10:30 p.m.
The injured teen was transported to the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in Charleston for treatment, but details regarding his current condition have not been disclosed. In addition to the severely injured boy, two other individuals suffered non-life-threatening injuries and received care from Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
Residents in the area expressed their shock and concern regarding the incident, particularly noting the inherent dangers associated with fireworks, especially as the July 4th holiday approaches. This incident has drawn attention to the increasing trend of modifying fireworks—a practice that law enforcement officials deem particularly hazardous.
Investigation and Safety Warnings
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is leading the investigation into the explosion. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of firework safety and are urging the public to purchase fireworks solely from authorized dealers. The ongoing investigation seeks to determine if any laws regarding the handling and usage of fireworks in South Carolina were violated during this incident.
Recent incidents involving modified fireworks have raised alarms, with local police stressing the necessity for increased awareness about firework safety. Community leaders are using this opportunity to remind residents about the laws regulating fireworks and the potential risks associated with their misuse.
Background on Fireworks Regulations
In South Carolina, the sale and use of fireworks are regulated by state law. Only certain types of fireworks are permitted, and restrictions apply to the areas where they can be used. As the July 4th holiday approaches, many communities host fireworks displays, but personal use often raises concerns about safety and compliance with local ordinances.
The Newberry fireworks explosion has sparked a renewed discussion on these regulations, highlighting the need for safe practices when handling any type of pyrotechnics. Fire safety education is more crucial than ever, particularly for teens and young adults who may underestimate the dangers associated with fireworks.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for accidents and injuries when fireworks are not used responsibly. Local authorities continue to appeal for public cooperation in adhering to safety guidelines as the holiday season approaches.
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Teen Hurt in Newberry Fireworks Explosion
- Wikipedia: Fireworks Safety
- WLTX: Newberry Fireworks Incident
- Google Search: Firework Safety
- WYFF 4: Multiple Injured in Firework Explosion
- Google Scholar: Fireworks Regulations
- WACH: Firework Incident in Newberry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fireworks
- MSN: Apparent Fireworks Explosion in Newberry
- Google News: Newberry Fireworks Incident
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
