An explosion at the New Seabury Country Club in Mashpee, Massachusetts, disrupted a Fourth of July celebration and resulted in injuries to two individuals during the setup of a fireworks display. NBC10 Boston reports that the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m., with eight people evaluated by first responders at the scene. One victim, with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, was flown to Rhode Island Hospital, while another was taken to Falmouth Hospital for minor injuries.
Early investigations by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services suggest that an accidental ignition during the wiring process is likely to blame, according to a statement to NBC10 Boston. The investigation is continuing with interviews, scene examination, and a post-blast assessment by state and local authorities. Witness videos displayed a thick cloud of smoke and rapid firework detonations at the golf course, raising alarm among onlookers.
Boston 25 News received a photo showing a large plume of smoke rising from the course. The State Fire Marshal's office issued a reminder about the inherent dangers of fireworks, praising the Mashpee Fire Department’s pre-planning and on-scene action that mitigated what could have been a "catastrophic event with significant property damage, more serious injuries, or much worse."
As detailed in reports from Hoodline, a prematurely ignited shell caused the explosions at the country club. The swift response from the Massachusetts State Police, local fire departments, the FBI Bomb Squad, and OSHA ensured that the area was secure, and an extensive emergency response was promptly set into motion. Despite the accident, the country club sustained their barbecue and kids' activities, although the fireworks show remained canceled.
The club's management acknowledged the incident and put its focus on supporting the investigation and addressing the needs of those injured. As quoted by Hoodline, the country club's general manager offered an apology for the disruption to celebrate the day's significance.
