Horrifying moment firework display malfunctions with exploding rockets slamming into crowds injuring ‘multiple people’ at Utah football stadium July 4 celebration
One person was struck in the face and several others were injured after a fireworks malfunction during a Fourth of July celebration at Utah’s Stadium of Fire.
The incident took place on the campus of Brigham Young University during a festival where the Jonas Brothers were also performing.
A video posted on social media shows fireworks being set off during a flyover by an F-35 fighter jet during a flag ceremony, with several pieces of fireworks accidentally being fired into the crowd.
At least two were fired at those performing on the field, two others flew into the eastern stand and landed between rows of spectators. A crowd of around 50,000 was expected for the event.
The festivities were halted for 20 minutes while the injured were treated and some were taken to local hospitals. More planes were expected to fly over before the strike took place.
At least six people were injured when fireworks were accidentally launched into the crowd at a party in Utah
KSL-TV According to reports, among those rushed to the scene was one person who was seriously injured after being hit in the face by fireworks.
According to Janna-Lee Holland, spokeswoman for the Provo police, the exact number and severity of injuries sustained during the annual celebration are not yet known.
Six people were taken to hospital, reports ABC Utah.
The Stadium of Fire is an annual event held at BYU’s LaVell Edwards Stadium.
The ABC Utah report states that witnesses said there was a small fire at the stand, which was started by the stray fireworks. It was quickly extinguished.
The show resumed around 9:00 p.m. local time.
According to the program, the jet fighter’s flyover took place at 8:39 p.m.
“Safety is of the utmost importance to us. All pyrotechnics at Stadium of Fire are thoroughly checked before the show, and were checked again following tonight’s incident,” organizers of America’s Freedom Festival said in a statement.
“Our thoughts are with those affected and we will continue to monitor them to ensure they are well.”