Buena Park, California – A tragic accident occurred during a Fourth of July celebration in Buena Park, California, when illegal fireworks misfired and struck 8-year-old Jasmine Nguyen, leading to her death. The incident happened on Cornflower Circle in Orange County, about 20 miles south of Los Angeles, on Friday evening at around 9:45 p.m..
The Incident
Officers from the Buena Park Police Department were patrolling the area when they saw a large quantity of fireworks explode. They then noticed people, described as family members, frantically carrying a child into a nearby home. The officers rushed to help and found Jasmine Nguyen suffering from critical injuries caused by the fireworks. She was rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after.
What Happened
Initial investigations revealed that a homeowner on the block had set up a large display of illegal fireworks in the street. However, the fireworks misfired, with some exploding toward the residence where Jasmine was located. The erratic fireworks also caused additional fireworks to ignite, injuring the child and causing her fatal injuries.
Fortunately, no one else appeared to be significantly hurt.
Arrest and Charges
Earl Decastro, 46, a neighbor of Nguyen and the person hosting the party, was arrested on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter. He was later released on $25,000 bail. The Orange County District Attorney’s Office is expected to file official charges.
The Family’s Loss
Lt. Jon Shaddow from the Buena Park Police Department called the incident “traumatic” and expressed sympathy for both the family and the officers involved in the situation. The official cause of Jasmine’s death is still under investigation, but it is believed to be due to traumatic internal injuries caused by the fireworks.
A GoFundMe page has been set up for Jasmine Nguyen, describing her as a girl with a heart as big as her smile. The page shares that her death has left a void that words cannot fill. Jasmine is remembered for her loving nature and for always making sure no one felt left out.
Remembering Jasmine
Jasmine’s tragic passing has deeply impacted her family, especially her 7-year-old sister and single mother. Her family, friends, and community remember her as a young girl who lived life to the fullest, loving without reservation, and finding joy in the small things.
