Grim Safety Reminder: SoCal Girl, 9, Loses Hand, Other Fingers in Fireworks Explosion

By Greg Hambrick (Patch Staff)

COMPTON, CA — A girl lost a hand and suffered more injuries after a fireworks explosion in Compton, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office.

The explosion went off at 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Burrell-MacDonald Park in the 2500 block of West Alondra Boulevard.

Investigators believe the explosion was due to illegal fireworks, according to a statement by law enforcement.
The 9-year-old's left hand had to be amputated following the blast. She also lost fingers on her right hand and suffered burn injuries to her face. She is in stable condition, according to authorities.

Last year was the worst year for fireworks injuries in at least 15 years, according to a report released Thursday by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Eleven people died in 2015 using fireworks, the report said, and an estimated 11,900 people were taken to the hospital with fireworks-related injuries.

More July 4th coverage at Patch:

• DIY Pallet Flag Is Perfect, Easy Holiday Craft For 4th Of July Fun
• Fireworks Aren't So Festive For Your Pets
• 3 Cocktails To Put Patriotic Pizzazz In Your July 4th Parties
• Pet Owners, Beware Of No. 1 Holiday Hazard For Dogs and Cats

For fireworks shows near you:

• 4th of July Parades, Fireworks and Celebrations in Sonoma County
• 4th of July Parades, Fireworks and Celebrations in Solano County
• 4th of July Parades, Fireworks and Celebrations in Contra Costa County
• 4th of July Parades, Fireworks and Celebrations in Santa Cruz County
• 4th of July Parades, Fireworks and Celebrations in Santa Clara County
• 4th of July Parades, Fireworks and Celebrations in Napa County

Includes reporting by Marc Torrence