Pittsburgh, PA — Despite nearly 100 calls related to fireworks activity over the Fourth of July holiday, the City of Pittsburgh’s Fireworks Task Force issued only two citations — even as several incidents, including fires and injuries to police officers, marred the celebrations.
The Fireworks Task Force was reactivated ahead of Independence Day in an effort to prevent fires and other dangers caused by illegal fireworks, city officials said.
Fires Prevented — But Not All
According to Pittsburgh Public Safety, the task force worked throughout the week, responding to 95 calls and conducting 86 patrols.
Two major fireworks shows — one planned at McKnight Park on Paige Street and another at Heth’s Playground on Hampton Street — were shut down before they could begin.
Still, some incidents couldn’t be stopped:
- McKnight Park sustained damage from commercial-grade fireworks on July 2
- A house fire on Almost Street on July 4
- Dumpster fires ignited on Bracy Drive
- A roof fire on Mt. Vernon Street sparked by falling fireworks
Officers Injured on South Side
The South Side saw chaos on the night of July 4, when a man reportedly threw a lit firework at two police officers. Both officers suffered minor burns, Public Safety confirmed.
Despite the dangerous behavior, only two citations were issued throughout the week.
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Fireworks Task Force: Mixed Results?
While officials say the task force prevented multiple large-scale fireworks displays, the number of fire-related incidents and injuries has raised questions about enforcement effectiveness and public compliance.
Should Pittsburgh Crack Down Harder on Illegal Fireworks?
Do you think the city did enough to manage fireworks this year — or should there be tougher rules and more penalties?
Drop your thoughts in the comments at ridgecrestpact.org and join the discussion on how Pittsburgh can balance celebration and safety.
