NYC Parks Department Employee Charged in Connection With Fireworks Accident That Injured Young Girl
STATEN ISLAND, NEW YORK (August 13, 2026) – A 10-year-old girl was seriously injured in a Staten Island fireworks accident at General Douglas MacArthur Park on Jefferson Street.
New York City officials are saying that the incident occurred around 6:45 PM on Tuesday. A 10-year-old girl reportedly found an M-80 firework in the park bathroom.
She subsequently showed it to a Parks Department worker. That worker allegedly helped light the firework which caused catastrophic injuries to the left hand of the young girl.
She was rushed to Staten Island University Hospital to receive treatment. Unfortunately, authorities said that she lost several fingers in the subsequent blast.
Liability for Staten Island Fireworks Accidents
Under New York negligence law, all people have a legal responsibility to conduct their affairs in a reasonably safe manner that does not create a foreseeable risk of injury or death. Penal Law § 270.00 prohibits any person from possessing or exploding any dangerous firework without the proper permit. Investigators will examine several different kinds of questions when determining who could be liable for an accident involving a firework.
- It matters who possessed or handled the firework prior to the incident.
- The condition of the property where the incident took place should also be taken into consideration.
- The employment relationship between any person suspected of misconduct and their employer is another important factor.
- Surveillance footage of the accident can also help establish what entities may be liable.
If a city employee acts negligently, their employer could potentially be held at fault. As a general principle, employers are legally responsible for the negligent conduct of their workers who are operating within the course and scope of their job duties. Victims of fireworks accidents are protected by a number of laws. They are able to seek some measure of accountability through a civil action. Damages in a personal injury claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering.
Investigating Staten Island Fireworks Accidents
We at GLK Law were deeply concerned to learn about this tragic accident in a Staten Island park. This incident was entirely preventable and needs to be thoroughly investigated by the police. It is deeply concerning that any government worker would allegedly act so carelessly. Any person with more information should reach out to the NYPD.
Have you or a loved one been injured due to the negligent conduct of a government worker? You may be entitled to financial compensation. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys is here to support you. We are committed to helping victims get the medical and financial assistance that they need to move forward with their lives. You can contact us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
