Accident Involving Fireworks Leaves Man with Serious Injuries
Florida City, FL (WSVN) – A dramatic scene unfolded in Florida City as a U-Haul van was spotted on surveillance with its side splattered with blood following an accident involving fireworks.
The Incident
According to police, the explosion occurred at an M&M store in the 500 block of West Lucy Street at around 1:30 pm on Monday. The victim, who was driving the U-Haul van, was desperately searching for help after a firework accident dealt serious injuries to his hand.
The Rescue Efforts
The victim drove himself to Homestead, where he pulled up to a friend’s home in the 1800 block of Northeast Second Court. Surveillance video captured the victim’s injured hand hanging out of the driver’s side window and blood visible on the driver’s side door. A woman was seen running out to help as they waited for Fire Rescue to arrive.
Investigation
Homestead Police officers responded and began to investigate, finding a mixture of illegal and commercial-grade fireworks inside the U-Haul van. They believe the victim was selling illegal fireworks out of the vehicle when one of the fireworks exploded in his hand. The man was transported to Homestead Hospital and then airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami in stable condition. He is still in the hospital and will need several surgeries on his hand.
Warning from Authorities
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue urged the public to be mindful when operating such equipment and to leave the handling of fireworks to professionals. "The best way to celebrate New Year’s is by leaving the fireworks to the experts," said Erika Benitez, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue spokesperson.
FAQs
Q: What happened in the incident?
A: A firework explosion occurred in a U-Haul van, leaving the driver with serious hand injuries.
Q: Where did the incident occur?
A: The incident occurred in Florida City at an M&M store in the 500 block of West Lucy Street.
Q: What happened after the incident?
A: The victim drove himself to Homestead and was later airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, where he is still receiving treatment.
Q: What is the current condition of the victim?
A: The victim is still in the hospital and will need several surgeries on his hand.
