OCEANSIDE — A 15-year-old boy suffered severe injuries, including the loss of a hand, after a firecracker detonated while he was holding it Thursday morning in Oceanside, authorities said.
The incident occurred around 9 a.m. on Feb. 5 in the 300 block of North Horne Street, just west of Interstate 5 and north of Mission Avenue, according to the Oceanside Fire Department.
The explosion caused the “traumatic amputation” of the teen’s right hand and severe burns to his chest and face, the department reported. Paramedics airlifted the boy to the burn unit at UCSD Medical Center in San Diego for specialized care.
The private use of recreational fireworks is illegal throughout San Diego County.
“The Oceanside Fire Department reminds the community that fireworks pose serious risks, especially to minors, and urges residents to follow all safety guidelines and local regulations regarding the use of fireworks,” officials said.
