INDEPENDENCE DAY TRAGEDY: 11-Year-Old Dies In Firework Blast
An 11-year-old boy died in a massive explosion after he helped grown-ups set off fireworks to celebrate America’s Independence Day.
Camrynn Ray McMichael of Mt. Vernon, Indiana state, was seriously injured in the blast on Sunday, 3rd July, a day ahead of the holiday.
The youngster survived the original explosion but died from his injuries on the way to a hospital in nearby Evansville.
The investigation into his death is ongoing and the post-mortem examination is scheduled for today (Tuesday).
Sgt. Todd Ringle of the Indiana State Police told local media that Camrynn was the only child present among a group of adults lighting fireworks.
The victim’s mother, Kyrra Lynn, told local media that Camrynn was “gone in the blink of an eye”.
She said of her son: “He was dedicated, hard working, [on the] honor roll, and never got in trouble.
“And if he did it’s because he wanted to make everyone laugh. No matter the situation he tried to be happy.”
Camrynn’s family released pictures of him with his little sister Karmynn Louise as a tribute.
Their mum said: “He protected her like a big brother should.
“He’s every parent’s dream of a boy.”
In a statement obtained by Newsflash on 4th July, Indiana State Police said: “Indiana State Police, Mt. Vernon Police and the Posey County Coroner are currently investigating a fireworks incident that claimed the life of an 11-year-old Mt. Vernon boy.
“Last night at approximately 9:42 p.m., Posey County 911 Dispatch received a call regarding a child being seriously injured from a fireworks incident at 932 N. Canal Street in Mt. Vernon. The child died while being transported to an Evansville Hospital.
“This is an on-going investigation. An autopsy is scheduled for tomorrow.
“This incident is being investigated by the Indiana State Police, Mt. Vernon Police Department, and the Posey County Coroner.”
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nine people died from fireworks in the USA last year, while about 11,500 people were treated in emergency rooms for firework-related injuries.
