EPD officer responds to firework complaint, piece of mortar breaks off and explodes

On July 4, 2020, a Eureka Police Officer responded to a complaint of illegal fireworks. When he arrived a piece of a mortar broke off and exploded just feet away. Luckily no one was badly injured, but a good reminder of the dangers of illegal fireworks. The responsible party was cited for possession of illegal fireworks without a permit and 30 mortars were confiscated and turned over to Cal Fire for destruction.

Eureka Police responded to 102 complaints of fireworks between Friday, July 3rd and Sunday, July 5th. These complaints made up 17% off all incidents over the weekend.--Eureka Police Department

Link to video:
https://www.facebook.com/135104556501207/posts/3591519610859667/

EPD Chief Watson:

Eureka Police Department Officer Ryan Cassidy had a close call when an illegal, "dangerous" aerial fireworks exploded nearby.  California Health and Safety Code 12677 HS makes it a crime to possess dangerous fireworks without a valid permit to do so. California Health and Safety Code 12505 HS lists “dangerous” fireworks. Buying and/or using dangerous fireworks is illegal other than by someone with a “special display license.” This is why, folks.

The person responsible was cited for possession of illegal fireworks without a permit and 30 mortars were confiscated and turned over to Cal Fire for destruction.