Tragic incident at Jax Fest fireworks in Jacksonville

Jacksonville, Alabama – A festive evening took a tragic turn this evening when an unexpected accident occurred during the setup of the much anticipated fireworks display at Jax Fest.

At around 6:15 p.m., a fireworks grenade exploded unexpectedly while being prepared by technicians from Pyrotecnico, the company responsible for the show. Although the device was not connected to a power source, it detonated, injuring one of the two technicians present on site. Emergency services were on the scene almost immediately, as the launch site is next to the Jacksonville Fire Department. The injured technician received immediate medical attention and was transported by helicopter to UAB Hospital in Birmingham. Fortunately, his condition is now stable. The other technician was uninjured and provided police with important information about the incident.

Pyrotecnico, with safety at heart, actively worked to find a way to continue the show until at least 8 p.m. Vendors remained on site and attendees continued to enjoy other aspects of the festival, despite the city’s disappointment at the event’s pause. The State Fire Marshal was promptly notified and arrived to assess the situation and ensure the safety of the site. The fireworks display was postponed, with Pyrotecnico promising to return at a later date to deliver the show.

According to Benjamin Nunnally, Jacksovnille’s public information officer, the accident scene is currently being jointly investigated by the State Fire Marshal, Jacksonville Fire Department (JFD) and Jacksonville Police Department (JPD). The site will be protected and secured until the Pyrotecnico National Safety Officer arrives tomorrow morning for a thorough inspection. A public notice will inform residents that fireworks may be heard during daylight hours for the next few days while the site is safely shut down. The City asks the public to refrain from speculation about the condition of the injured technician and to respect the ongoing investigation.

Chief Kadle of the Jacksonville Fire Department spoke to the Calhoun Journal about the incident in which a worker was seriously injured by an accidental discharge of fireworks during preparations for tonight’s show. The worker was flown by helicopter to Birmingham where he received special treatment. Chief Kadle confirmed that the Jacksonville Fire Department and Police Department, along with the fire chief, are securing the scene. They are awaiting the arrival of a national safety officer who will investigate the cause of the accident and inspect the fireworks for any possible defects to prevent future incidents. The investigation will begin tomorrow morning.

City officials thanked first responders for their quick response and assured residents of their commitment to safety. Council members stressed the importance of staying informed about potential adverse weather conditions and encouraged residents to celebrate the Fourth of July safely. More information on the postponed fireworks display and additional details from the investigation will be released as they become available.

This tragic event has undoubtedly cast a shadow over Jacksonville’s festivities, but the resilience of the community and the commitment of Pyrotecnico and city officials promise more beautiful festivities in the near future.

Editor’s note: According to Benjamin Nunnally, Jacksonville’s spokesman, fireworks are set off by residents in the city. The city will not be setting off fireworks tonight. That will not change.