At least five people went to the hospital with injuries ranging from a possible broken leg to severe burns after a fireworks-related explosion on the 1200 block of Brigantino Drive on the Fourth of July. Shawn Gregory Bourdet, 35, of Hollister, was arrested on scene, with police saying he accepted responsibility and “fully cooperated” with the investigation.
Hollister Police, Hollister Fire and AMR responded to the incident at around 10:30 p.m. Saturday night, amid hundreds of illegal fireworks being sent aloft around Hollister. Earlier that evening, Hollister Police Chief David Westrick said on Facebook that the city seemed “Beirut-ish” with all of the explosions around town.
The investigation revealed that a “large mortar, rocket launcher firework device had been set off on the street at a large block party. The device, once lit, fell over, police said. The projectiles from the device hit several persons, including children, who were enjoying Independence Day activities outside of their homes.
Several children suffered moderate to severe burns as a result of the incident, police said, and one child was flown to a Bay Area hospital with severe injuries. There was also information that several other victims may have self-transported to receive medical assitance.
“This incident is a grim reminder of the dangers of fireworks,” Westrick said. “Some of these children will be scarred for life. Please be responsible in your celebrations and call us with any information on those that possess and use illegal fireworks.”
This is an active investigation and the Hollister Police Department is asking any other victims or witnesses to contact investigators regarding the incident. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call Officer Juan Guevara or any police officer at the Hollister Police Department at 636-4330.
“We would also like to remind all citizens of the severe dangers of fireworks,” Westrick added. Hollister allows “safe-and-sane” fireworks that do not go airborne, but illegal fireworks that leave the ground are common sites — and sounds — in the county on and around the Fourth of July.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the WeTip hotline at 800-78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.