Illegal fireworks injure boy

EASTGATE PARK in West Garden Grove (file photo).

A 14-year old boy was hospitalized in serious condition Friday night after an illegal “mortar” style firework detonated prematurely while being ignited in Eastgate Park in Garden Grove.

According to Sgt. Nick Jensen, public information officer for the GGPD, the incident took place around 10 p.m. at the park at 12001 St. Mark St., just west of Valley View Street, near where Chapman Avenue.

The youth, who reportedly suffered serious injuries to his hands and face, was treated by Orange County Fire Authority firefighter paramedics and then taken to UCI Medical Center in Orange, according to Capt. Steve Concialdi, a public information officer for the OCFA.

“Illegal fireworks are extremely dangerous and unpredictable, said Concialdi. “Since they are not regulated, once lit, the handler does not know when the illegal explosive is going to detonate.”

No criminal charges will be pressed in connection with this incident, by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office which was summoned to investigate the explosion.