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.