Tulsa, OK (July 3, 2026) – Two children were hospitalized with serious injuries on Wednesday night after a fireworks explosion near the intersection of 46th St N and Main in Tulsa.
According to the Tulsa Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 10:20 p.m. after initially receiving reports of a shooting. While responding, officers learned the incident was actually a fireworks accident.
When first responders arrived, they found an 11-year-old and a 12-year-old suffering from severe injuries. The police said the 11-year-old sustained lacerations across his upper body. The 12-year-old suffered devastating injuries after his hand was largely destroyed, and he sustained significant trauma to his eyes. Both children were transported to a local hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Investigators determined the 12-year-old was holding a small grenade-style mortar firework while the 11-year-old attempted to light it. The firework exploded before it could be safely released.
The Tulsa Police Department said the mortar firework involved is believed to have had a very short fuse and emphasized that such fireworks should never be handled by children. The incident remains under investigation.
We extend our thoughts to the injured children and their families and wish both victims a full recovery.
The Serious Risks Associated with Mortar Fireworks
Mortar-style fireworks are among the most powerful consumer fireworks available and are designed to be launched from a stable tube, not held by hand. If a mortar ignites prematurely or has a short fuse, it can explode before it leaves the launch tube, causing catastrophic injuries.
Fireworks explosions commonly result in severe burns, deep lacerations, eye trauma, hearing damage, and traumatic hand injuries. Children are particularly vulnerable because they may not recognize the dangers associated with these devices. Safety experts recommend that only responsible adults handle fireworks, carefully follow manufacturer instructions, maintain a safe distance after lighting the fuse, and never attempt to hold or relight malfunctioning fireworks.
