Boy left fighting for his life after mishandling fireworks, officials say

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC/Gray News) - A child in Tennessee fell victim to the dangers of fireworks Saturday afternoon as families celebrated the Fourth of July weekend.

The Memphis Police Department reports a young boy, whose exact age has not yet been confirmed, is now fighting for his life after mishandling fireworks.

Officers responded to the 3700 block of Dorado Avenue, located near Frayser-Releigh Road, around 1:15 p.m.

When police arrived, they said paramedics were already on the scene.

The young boy was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition.

WMC reports evidence that several ignited fireworks were found in the roadway where police were still gathered hours after the incident.

Officials said the investigation is ongoing.

Injury prevention manager Jennifer Taylor spoke to WMC in 2023 and said thousands of children across the country visit the hospital for fireworks incidents every year.

“It doesn’t take but a second for anything to happen when you have a child. Supervising your kids is a big thing,” she said. “We underestimate those sparklers. And, you know, they can reach up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit, and it can get extremely hot and can even burn metal.”

Taylor recommended leaving the light shows to the professionals.