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Columbus: On 4 July 2026, at night, the Columbus Police Department and the Columbus Division of Fire responded to an incident of fireworks thrown into a crowd by teens and adults along North High Street in Columbus, OH. The Columbus Police are investigating the incident and coordinating with the Columbus Division of Fire on possible charges to be filed.
Sabula: On 4 July 2026, the Jackson County Sherriff’s Office responded to a firework thrown into a private residence located on River Street in Sabula, IA. A 31-year-old male suspect threw a mortar firework into a neighbor’s garage following a dispute. A group of people were in the garage when the firework exploded, which caused blast damage and filled the garage with smoke. Police arrested the suspect, who admitted he did it, claiming it was in response to the neighbor’s harassment.
Wilmington: On 3 July 2026, around 2234 local time, the Wilmington Police Department responded to an assault using fireworks near 9th and North Pine Streets in Wilmington, DE. Multiple juveniles assaulted two individuals with fireworks, including a Roman candle. A male victim was reported in a critical condition and was hospitalized; a female victim was treated and released. Investigators identified one of the participants, a 13-year-old male juvenile, who was arrested and charged with attempted murder, possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony, and conspiracy.
Bartlett: On 2 July 2026, the Bartlett Police Department, the Bartlett Fire Department, and EMS responded to a fireworks incident during the Bartlett, TN, fireworks show on Appling Road. A group of juveniles set off fireworks near the crowd during the city’s firework show resulting in a temporary disruption but no injuries. Police arrested five juveniles for crimes including disorderly conduct and drug possession. The event concluded safely. The investigation remains ongoing.
Petaluma: On 28 June 2026, the Petaluma Police Department responded to a report of a firework thrown at a private residence located on Colwood Drive in Petaluma, CA. A 43-year-old male suspect intentionally launched a mortar-style firework at a neighbor's home during an apparent dispute. The explosion burned a hole through the roof of the residence. The suspect surrendered to police and was arrested. He was booked on multiple felony charges, including criminal threats, arson and vandalism. The investigation remains ongoing.
Toledo: On 28 June 2026, around 1930 local time, the Toledo Police Department and Toledo Fire and Rescue Department responded to a firework incident at a private residence located on Meadowbrook Court in Toledo, OH. Two juveniles, brothers aged 11 and 14, were playing outside with fireworks when the younger lit and threw a firework, which landed near his 14-year-old brother’s face. The explosion caused serious facial injuries. The injured juvenile was transported to the hospital and was in stable condition. Police are investigating the incident.
York: On 21 June 2026, at approximately 2259 local time, the York County Sheriff's Office stopped a male suspect for driving on the shoulder while turning onto Highway 34 near Road L in York, NE. A narcotics K9 alerted on the vehicle, which led to the discovery of several knives, an unmarked pill bottle containing four clindamycin pills, and a white PVC pipe bomb that was capped at both ends with a protruding wick. The suspect was arrested and charged with possession of a destructive device, carrying a concealed weapon by a prohibited person as well as traffic violation infractions.
Benedict: On 19 June 2026, at approximately 2012 local time, the York County Sheriff's Office stopped a male suspect for speeding along Highway 81 near Road 22 in Benedict, NE. A narcotics K9 alerted on the vehicle, which led to the discovery of a cylindrical device, six to seven inches long and capped at both ends with a protruding wick and gray powder inside. The male suspect claimed it was a firecracker he had purchased.
Lakewood: On 13 June 2026, around 1500 local time, the Lakewood Police Department, the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office Hazardous Device Squad, and the West Pierce Fire Department responded to an explosion at a private residence on Steilacoom Boulevard Southwest in Lakewood, WA. At the scene, a 47-year-old male suspect sustained severe injuries and was taken to the hospital. According to investigation, the suspect was making fireworks and explosive devices. He admitted that he placed black powder in a blender and turned it on when it exploded.
