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Buena Park Homeowner Posts Bail After Illegal Fireworks Kill 8-Year-Old

Authorities have named the victim as 8-year-old Jasmine Nguyen; the homeowner faces involuntary manslaughter charges pending district attorney review

Fireworks on display in California/ Representational (Photo by Etienne LAURENT / AFP)
Detail of the lights of red and blue police sirens during city control
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Overview

  • On July 4 at 9:45 p.m., a large illegal fireworks display set up by homeowner Earl Decastro misfired on Cornflower Circle, igniting nearby fireworks and fatally striking an 8-year-old girl.
  • The victim was identified Monday as 8-year-old Jasmine Nguyen of Anaheim, who died at UC Irvine Medical Center after initial life-saving efforts on scene.
  • Decastro was arrested on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter, posted $25,000 bail Sunday, and faces charges awaiting review by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.
  • The Buena Park Police Department is working with Orange County Fire Authority investigators and the Sheriff’s Bomb Squad to determine the misfire’s cause and potential liability.
  • The incident highlights ongoing enforcement challenges and public safety risks posed by unpermitted fireworks displays during major holidays in California.