In 1994 we were on the beach in Pompano one Independence Day. IIR they were setting off the fireworks on the pier.
The display was delayed. Eventually they started going off. We could tell there was a worker seemingly lighting them by hand.
Next thing you know there is an explosion ON the pier and the fireworks guy is flying through the air with flames coming out of his chest.
It seems that the electrical system they usually used that night failed. They decided to set them off manually. One went off - I think it fell over - and shot the worker in the chest, killing him.
Haven’t enjoyed fireworks much since.
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/1997/04/03/pompano-fireworks-to-be-off-coast-not-pier-after-94-death/
My sons were at this event.
My husband and I were on a vacation.
They called us before the news told us.
Grateful they were not hurt.
FYI, we moved back to Texas!
Overview of the Fireworks Explosion
A significant incident occurred during a Fourth of July fireworks display at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, where a malfunctioning launching platform led to an explosion that injured numerous spectators.
Details of the Incident
Date and Location
Date: July 4, 2013
Location: Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, Simi Valley, California