On July 4, 2025, in Buena Park, Orange County, tragedy struck when an 8-year-old girl lost her life due to an illegal fireworks display. The Buena Park Police Department confirmed the heartbreaking news on Saturday.
Around 9:45 p.m., officers patrolling the 8000 block of Cornflower Circle observed frantic family members rushing a child into a home. The police had been in the area responding to reports of numerous fireworks being set off nearby.
When the officers witnessed the urgency of the situation, they quickly approached to provide assistance, administering life-saving measures before the girl was transported to the University of California, Irvine hospital. Sadly, she was pronounced dead upon arrival. The family’s privacy is being respected, and her identity has not been disclosed.
Initial investigations by the Buena Park Police indicated that a neighboring homeowner had initiated a significant illegal fireworks display. As the fireworks ignited, some misfired towards the residence where the young girl was present, resulting in a chaotic scene that led to her fatal injuries. While several other individuals were nearby, no major injuries were reported.
The homeowner responsible for the fireworks was arrested, and charges are currently under review by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. The investigation continues in collaboration with the Orange County Fire Authority and the Sheriff’s Bomb Squad.