A Long Island 4th of July fire has caused damage to two houses and caused both major and minor injuries after an 11-year-old boy ignited fireworks.
The fireworks were given to the child by Karamjit Singh, a 33-year-old resident, who now faces multiple charges in connection with the incident.
11-Year-Old Boy Sparks Blaze
On Thursday, emergency responders were summoned to multiple incidents related to fireworks in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
In Levittown, Singh reportedly gave fireworks to the boy and urged him to set them off. The fireworks failed to work properly, causing a shed to catch on fire.
The flames rapidly extended to Singh's residence on Red Maple Drive North and subsequently to a nearby dwelling.
Neighbor Maiya Ramos, whose home also suffered damage, remembered getting a troubling message.
Ramos reported receiving a message from her neighbor informing her about a massive fire that completely destroyed her house. She mentioned feeling thankful that she wasn't at home at the time and that nobody was injured.
While no injuries were recorded, a tenant residing in Singh's residence had to be relocated because of the significant destruction.
Singh is facing charges for committing arson, endangering others, selling fireworks to a minor illegally, and putting a child at risk.
Injuries and Damage Mount
The Long Island 4th of July fire was one of many incidents that night. Suffolk County Police dealt with two significant fireworks incidents.
A large crowd assembled on Foxrun Court in Port Jefferson Station to watch fireworks when one accidentally hit four individuals, including an 8-year-old girl, around 10 p.m.
A man who is 30 years old experienced burns and lost a finger, while another man who is 38 years old got serious leg injuries.
A woman aged 30 and the girl who is young suffered slight injuries. Several cars on the block were also affected by the fireworks incident.
Neighbors were left to clean up the mess the next day, with remnants of fireworks and numerous boxes scattered on the street.
A local resident named Chase DeLuca stressed the significance of safety, stating that it is crucial to always be cautious around fireworks. It's great that people are interested in watching it, but if you would like, the towns can host events with the fire department for a safer experience.
In Copiague previously, a 21-year-old man sustained severe injuries after a firework detonated in his hand during a party on Trouville Road.
The blast caused the amputation of three fingers and injured the remaining two on his left hand. He experienced injuries to his leg as well. The man received medical attention for his wounds and is anticipated to recover.
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Officials Warn About Fireworks Dangers
Suffolk County officials had issued warnings ahead of the holiday about the dangers of transporting and setting off fireworks.
Dominick Thorne, Legislative Chair for Fire Rescue and Emergency Services in Suffolk County, highlighted the risks, stating, "[There were] 9,700 injuries last year alone related to firework injuries."
Rudy Sunderman, Deputy Commissioner for Fire Rescue and Emergency Services for Suffolk County, noted that sparklers, which can burn between 1,200 and 2,000 degrees, are a significant hazard.
"You wouldn't give a child a match, why would you give a child a sparkler?" he questioned. Sunderman also pointed out that fireworks were responsible for 19,000 fires last year in the U.S.
Authorities urge residents to attend professional displays put on by towns and fire departments to ensure safety.
