Teen Dies in South LA Fireworks Accident: Investigation Underway

Tragic Fireworks Fatality in South LA

• 💔 A 17-year-old was critically injured by an explosive device in the backyard of a South LA home.
• 💥 The incident occurred just after 9:30 PM on 84th Street near Figueroa.
• 😔 Paramedics transported the teen to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Investigation and Illegal Fireworks

• 🚨 LAPD and the bomb squad responded to the scene to examine the device and the property.
• 💣 Investigators found a box labeled "cash game 357," identified as a high-powered aerial firework classified as dangerous and illegal under state law.
• 🏠 The bomb squad conducted a controlled detonation and discovered more dangerous and illegal fireworks inside the home.
• 🔍 The entire block where the incident occurred has been taped off as an active death investigation continues.

Witness Accounts and Cause

• 👂 Neighbors reported hearing a massive blast followed by smoke, initially mistaking it for gunshots or regular fireworks.
• ⚠️ Early indications suggest the explosion was caused by a malfunctioning homemade or high-powered firework.
• 😔 One neighbor expressed sadness over the loss of a young life due to what they described as negligence.

Ongoing Investigation Details

• 🕯️ The identity of the deceased teen has not yet been released.
• 🚫 Police confirmed there were no other reported injuries from the incident.
• 🕵️ Investigators are working to confirm the exact cause of the blast.