One person was hit in the face and several others were injured after fireworks malfunctioned during a July 4 celebration of freedom at an event known as the Stadium of Fire in Utah.
The incident occurred on the campus of Brigham Young University during a festival that included a performance by the Jonas Brothers.
A video posted on social media shows fireworks flying over an F-35 fighter jet in the middle of a flag ceremony where several of the pyrotechnic items were accidentally fired into the crowd.
At least two of them were fired at those on the pitch, and two others flew towards the east stand and landed among the rows of spectators. A crowd of around 50,000 was expected for the event.
The celebrations were halted for 20 minutes to treat the injured, some of whom were taken to local hospitals. More planes were scheduled to fly overhead before the halt.
At least six people were injured when fireworks were accidentally fired into a crowd during a celebration in Utah
KSL Television Among those rescued from the scene was reportedly one person who was seriously injured after being hit in the face by a firework.
Provo Police Department spokeswoman Janna-Lee Holland said the exact number and severity of injuries at the annual holiday event were not immediately available.
Six people were taken to hospital, according to reports. ABC of Utah.
Stadium of Fire is an annual event held at LaVell Edwards Stadium at BYU.
The ABC Utah report says witnesses said a small fire broke out in the grandstand, sparked by errant fireworks, which was quickly extinguished.
The show resumed around 9 p.m. local time.
According to the program’s schedule, the fighter jet’s flyby took place at 8:39 p.m.
“Safety is of the utmost importance to us. All fireworks at Stadium of Fire are thoroughly inspected prior to the show and were re-inspected following tonight’s incident,” America’s Freedom Festival organizers said in a statement.
“Our thoughts are with those who were affected and we are following up to make sure they are okay.”
