A fireworks detonation on Third Street in South Bend left one person with a severe hand injury on Friday, according to local reports. The blast badly wounded the victim and triggered multiple 911 calls as neighbors and first responders rushed in. The injury came as communities along the south Washington coast were gearing up for back-to-back Independence Day and America 250 events.
911 call and the scene
As reported by the Chinook Observer, a 911 caller told South Bend police there was a "severe injury" on Third Street and that the victim was "screaming in agony." Emergency crews transported the person to an area hospital, and the paper reports the explosion apparently severed a hand. Investigators were treating the incident as a fireworks detonation while officers went door to door in the neighborhood looking for witnesses and any details on what led up to the blast.
Local rules and permits
Pacific County’s Community Development office requires anyone running a temporary retail fireworks stand to file an application, submit a site plan and pass an opening inspection before selling consumer fireworks, according to county guidance. Pacific County also requires permit fees and a certified inspection before stands can open in South Bend or Long Beach. Because county and city rules can differ, officials say would-be buyers should confirm local restrictions before purchasing or setting off fireworks.
Safety warnings and recalls
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently announced a fast-track recall of more than 87,000 Winco "Unity" aerial-cake devices, warning that the units can tip over and create explosion and burn hazards. The agency urged anyone who has the recalled items to stop using them immediately and seek refunds. The CPSC noted that the recall comes just days before fireworks use typically peaks around the holidays.
The State Fire Marshal’s office has also been sounding the alarm, saying fireworks regularly drive a spike in injuries and fires, and noting that in 2024 there were more than 150 injuries and hundreds of fires statewide linked to fireworks. The office recommends that people attend professional public shows instead of using consumer-grade explosives at home. The Washington State Patrol shares safety tips as well as contacts for reporting suspicious or illegal fireworks activity.
What officials are asking
Investigators are still working to determine exactly what went wrong on Third Street and are asking anyone with information or video from the area to contact South Bend police. For medical emergencies, officials stress that people should call 911. Questions about the legality or safe disposal of fireworks should go to the State Fire Marshal’s office or local county fire authorities. Agencies continue to emphasize that licensed public displays remain the safest way to enjoy fireworks during holiday weekends.
