Fireworks mishap at Düsseldorf fair leaves 19 injured

Nineteen people were injured in a fireworks display during the Rhein fair (Rheinkirmes) in Düsseldorf on Friday evening. Four of them were seriously injured, a fire department spokesperson said on Saturday. Two children were also injured, one seriously. Police believed it was a "tragic accident" that may have been caused by an overturned launch pad.

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The fire department reportedly was alerted at 10:45 p.m. The injured were taken to hospitals. A total of almost 80 firefighters and rescue personnel were deployed. According to police, a firework exploded not in the sky as intended, but "close to the ground." The criminal investigation department has begun investigating the cause, a police spokesperson said on Saturday.

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Videos show that a possibly overturned launch container may have been the cause of the accident. This is now being investigated. The organizer decided to end the fair early on the evening of the accident. However, it continued on Saturday and will run until Sunday. 

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"We're also deeply shocked," explained Andreas-Paul Stieber of the Sankt Sebastianus Schützenverein 1316, the organizer, on Saturday afternoon. They are now examining "whether we want to continue offering the fair fireworks in the future." However, the association wants to await the findings of the investigating authorities before making a decision. 

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Stieber thanked the rescue workers for their swift assistance. "We wish all those affected a speedy recovery from the consequences of the accident." After discussions with showmen and restaurateurs, it was decided to reopen the fair at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Stieber continued. An ecumenical celebration for those affected, as well as their relatives and friends, was planned for Saturday afternoon on the festival grounds.