A Fourth of July fireworks celebration in Glenrock, Wyoming, ended with a young boy being seriously injured after a firework reportedly exploded in a crowd of spectators. The child was later airlifted to Children’s Hospital Colorado in Denver, while local authorities opened an investigation into the incident.
Incident
The incident happened around 9:30 p.m. on July 4 during the annual fireworks celebration at the South Recreation Complex in Glenrock.
According to the boy’s mother, Katrina Pergande, a firework entered the area where her family was gathered before striking her son, Lavon, in the eye and exploding.
Pergande said several members of her family, including herself and multiple children, also suffered burns during the incident.
Injury
Lavon sustained the most serious injuries after the firework struck his left eye.
He was first taken by ambulance from Glenrock to a hospital in Casper before being airlifted to Children’s Hospital Colorado in Denver for specialized treatment.
According to his mother, doctors began administering steroid treatments to reduce swelling before determining whether surgery would be necessary.
She said Lavon suffered burns to his eyelid along with significant trauma to his eye.
Event
Unlike many communities that organize professional fireworks displays, Glenrock allows attendees to launch their own fireworks during the annual celebration.
The event is organized by the Glenrock Fire Department at the local ball fields.
Admission is limited to 400 vehicles at $10 per car, and alcohol is prohibited during the event.
Witness
John Rosenfeld, a former emergency medical technician from Casper who attended the celebration, said he witnessed the firework travel across the ground before exploding among spectators.
He said panic spread quickly as people ran from the area.
Rosenfeld praised the Glenrock Fire Department, saying firefighters responded almost immediately and quickly assisted the injured child.
He added that, based on what he observed, he believed the incident appeared to be an accident rather than an intentional act.
Appeal
Pergande is asking anyone who attended the fireworks celebration and witnessed the incident to contact the Glenrock Police Department.
She is also seeking photos or videos that may help investigators determine how the firework entered the crowd and who may have discharged it.
According to her social media post, her family was seated near the left field close to the second-to-last row of fireworks stands when the incident occurred.
Investigation
Glenrock Police Chief Colter Felton confirmed that the department is investigating the incident involving the injured juvenile.
Because the investigation remains active, police have not released details about the possible source of the firework or identified anyone who may have been responsible.
Chief Felton confirmed that the boy suffered an injury to his left eye and was transported to Casper before being flown to Denver for further medical care.
Police are encouraging anyone with information, photographs, or videos from the event to come forward.
Safety
The incident has renewed attention on the risks associated with consumer fireworks, particularly at events where members of the public are permitted to launch them.
Chief Felton reminded residents that fireworks are dangerous and unpredictable and urged anyone using them to exercise caution for their own safety and the safety of those nearby.
As Lavon continues receiving medical treatment in Denver, his family hopes additional witness information will help investigators better understand exactly what happened during the holiday celebration.
FAQs
Where did the fireworks incident happen?
It occurred at the South Recreation Complex in Glenrock, Wyoming.
Where was the injured boy taken?
He was airlifted to Children’s Hospital Colorado in Denver.
Is the incident under investigation?
Yes, Glenrock Police have an active investigation.
Are police seeking witnesses?
Yes, investigators are asking for photos, videos, and information.
Did other people suffer injuries?
Yes, several family members reportedly suffered burns.
