Explosion in Central Park Likely 'Homemade Fireworks'

Central Park, NEW YORK — A man suffered a serious foot injury after an explosion caused by "homemade fireworks or something similar" in Central Park.

According to the FDNY, a call came in around 10:53 a.m. at Fifth Avenue and E. 68th St. for a major injury. The victim has a "possible amputation," the FDNY said.

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He was taken to Bellevue Hospital in "serious but stable condition," police said. The victim was undergoing surgery Sunday afternoon, authorities said at an afternoon news conference.

Police said that there was no evidence that the explosion was related to terrorism and added that there was no specific or credible threats directed at New York or the July Fourth celebrations. K-9 police dogs were checking the park for any other explosives, police said.

Police have not named the victim who was injured, but he is apparently from Fairfax, Virginia. The New York Daily News reported he was with two friends at the time of the explosion.

"His foot is all but gone," a witness told the Daily News.

The victim and his two friends jumped off a rock, and an explosion occurred where they landed, injuring the man. The three were all between the ages of 18-20.

Police suspect the fireworks were left at the park as some sort of "experiment." The victim and his two friends are not believed to have anything to do with the so-called experiment.

"Dangerous incident in Central Park today. Fireworks are fun - but let's leave them to the professionals. Stay safe," Mayor Bill de Blasio tweeted.

The funeral for Elie Wiesel was taking place nearby at the Fifth Avenue Synagogue on East 62nd Street.

Several witnesses reported hearing a boom at the park.

Patch will update this breaking news story.

Image Credit: Stephen Turton via Twitter @SWTurton

Mary Ann Barton contributed to this report