On Thursday evening, multiple videos emerged showing a fireworks display gone awry at the Stadium of Fire concert in Provo, Utah. Reports indicate that rogue shots from the fireworks inadvertently struck members of the audience, resulting in injuries. One individual was transported to a hospital with serious injuries, while others were also reportedly hurt.
Upon receiving reports of injuries in the crowd, several firefighters promptly responded to the scene. The incident took place at LaVell Edwards Stadium, the football facility for Brigham Young University. The mishap occurred as a fireworks display commenced behind the stage, coinciding with the conclusion of the national anthem and a flyover by four fighter jets.
While most fireworks ascended vertically into the sky, stray sparks were observed firing horizontally into the crowd near the stage. Attendees were seen signaling for assistance by waving their hands in the air.
The Freedom Festival, the organization behind Stadium of Fire and other annual events nationwide, reassured the public via Twitter that all fireworks had been meticulously inspected before the show and were rechecked following the incident. The festival emphasized its commitment to prioritizing safety and expressed concern for those affected by the mishap.
After a brief pause, the concert resumed, with the Jonas Brothers taking the stage around 9 p.m. and concluding the event without further incidents. Provo Police Department spokesperson Janna-Lee Holland informed KUTV that the incident occurred shortly after the flyover, though the exact number and severity of injuries remain unknown at this time.
Footage circulating online depicts pyrotechnics not only shooting into the stands but also landing on the field where individuals were either standing or seated. The incident has raised questions about the safety protocols and execution of pyrotechnic displays at large-scale events.
