TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A 6-year-old girl was injured at Taichung’s New Year's Eve fireworks show after falling debris landed in the crowd.
The Japanese girl received on-site treatment from emergency responders, per CNA. She was taken to the hospital where she was treated for first-degree burns below her eyelid.
The fireworks manufacturer, subcontracted by Sanlih Entertainment Television, has been fined NT$100,000 (US$3,052) for breaking the Fireworks Management Act (爆竹煙火管理條例). Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) said the government will support the injured girl.
Taichung’s Fire Bureau said an initial investigation showed the incident was likely caused by a loose iron mounting bracket used to secure the firing tubes. The unstable frame caused one firework shell to misfire at an irregular angle, causing sparks and debris to fall into the crowd.
The bureau confirmed adequate safety distances were put in place between the fireworks and crowds. The mayor said a further investigation will determine whether the accident was due to other technical issues or weather conditions.
The New Year's Eve fireworks display at Taichung Central Park was expected to draw more than 200,000 people. At 9:45 p.m., the venue reached full capacity.