Conflicting reports of injuries after malfunction halts Wheaton fireworks display

Wheaton’s annual Independence Day fireworks display came to an abrupt and unexpected halt Wednesday night when the show’s operator experienced a malfunction, city officials reported.

According to a city statement, no injuries occurred as a result of the malfunction. However, several commenters on the city’s Facebook page disputed that report, writing that several show attendees sustained minor injuries, primarily from fireworks debris in their eyes.

City spokeswoman Susan Bishel said Thursday afternoon the Wheaton Fire Department did not treat any individuals at the fireworks show in Graf Park.

One youth was evaluated by fire department paramedics for what was described as a minor first-degree burn the size of a pimple from an unknown source, Bishel said. But the youth did not request or receive treatment and left with family, she said.

She added that Wheaton police did not receive any requests for emergency medical services or transport for injuries.

As a precaution, the remainder of the show was suspended and the park was cleared for the evening, officials said. City of Wheaton safety personnel were on site and responded according to the safety plans in place in partnership with the Wheaton Park District, the city’s statement reads.

There was no immediate indication Thursday whether the show would be rescheduled. Park district Executive Director Michael Benard wrote in an email that additional information would be forthcoming, but likely not on Thursday.

The city’s statement does not identify the operator, but a contract posted on the city’s website indicates Michigan-based RKM Fireworks Company was hired in April to put on the show.

According to the posted contract, RKM was to be paid $29,000 for the display, and if it were canceled or postponed due to weather or safety concerns, the show would be performed on another date to be determined by the park district. The contract does not specify what might occur if the performance were halted mid-show, however.