Murfreesboro man loses part of hand in fireworks accident
JUL 01, 2021

Murfreesboro Police and Fire Rescue Departments are urging residents to practice fireworks safety after part of a man’s hand was amputated while attempting to shoot a firework mortar from the sunroof of a car Wednesday, June 30. A woman in the car also suffered minor burns and injuries.

The Murfreesboro man told police Rutherford County Emergency Medical Services the mortar exploded in a tube he was holding in his left hand. The accident happened around 9:30 p.m. Wednesday near Forrest Drive and N. Highland Blvd.

Medical personnel searched the area attempting to preserve parts of the man’s hand but couldn’t locate anything. The 21-year-old is being treated at Vanderbilt Medical Center.

“Fireworks are made of explosives and are dangerous when used improperly,” said MPD Captain Cary Gensemer. “Users should read the instructions and safety warnings. Bad things can happen, as was the case with this accident; a man’s life is changed forever.”

The 20-year-old female in the vehicle suffered slight head injuries, minor burns to her neck and upper back, and complained of ear pain. Medics treated her at the scene.

“Fireworks can cause serious injury with careless and incorrect use and should only be utilized at the city allowed time of the year,” said MFRD Chief Mark Foulks. “This incident should serve as a reminder, never hold fireworks in your hands; always use a flat surface lighting them.”

Also, a group of people shot fireworks at passing cars, causing drivers to swerve off the road to avoid being hit on Forrest and Lee Streets between midnight and 2 a.m. Monday, June 28. Individuals also shot fireworks at a Murfreesboro police patrol unit.

Quoted:
Stupid should hurt. In this case, it may have.

Another knucklehead in Nashville was arrested for shooting a mortar at the po-po helicopter. Copter pilot had no sense of humor about it either. Not sure how they knew which jackass did it though?