Technician injured while setting up fireworks show in Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Ala. ( WIAT ) — Calhoun County’s annual Jax Fest was canceled Wednesday night after a worker was injured while setting up pyrotechnics.

A news release from the City of Jacksonville stated a firework shell unexpectedly detonated while being prepared. An injured technician was transported by helicopter to UAB Hospital and is in stable condition. No other injuries were reported.

No power source was connected to the device, which is detonated by an electric match via computer control. The state fire marshal is investigating the incident.

Residents may hear fireworks detonating at the Public Safety Complex over the next few days as the site is safely decommissioned. The Gadsden-Etowah Patriots Association found a company that will present a fireworks show at 9 p.m. Thursday. The fireworks will be launched from the old convention hall site next to the amphitheater, which means some regular parking areas could be blocked.

No further information is available at this time.

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