Seven transported to the hospital due to fireworks display at Rhode Island festival

Cumberland, Rhode Island- According to the Cumberland Fire Department, on Saturday, public safety crews mitigated an incident involving a firework detonation which injured members of the public.

Just after 10:00 p.m. during the fireworks display at Cumberlandfest, held at Diamond Hill Park an incident involving pyrotechnic material discharged by a licensed agency came into close contact with members of the public in attendance of the festival.

The incident was part of the professional display. While the fireworks show was ongoing, a single projectile from the display malfunctioned and did not travel on its intended trajectory. This resulted in the device landing on the ground in vicinity of spectators.

Public safety crews responded and rendered medical attention to those injured. A total of three ambulances (2 Cumberland and 1 Woonsocket) were called to the scene. Seven people (4 children and 3 adults) were transported to Hasbro Children’s Hospital with minor injuries.

The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office was immediately called to the scene for an origin and cause investigation.

The Cumberland Fire Department would like to remind residents to always have an escape plan for public gatherings, noting your closest exit for safety.