Firework Accident Leaves Three Injured at Maine Ski Resort

Three pyrotechnics workers were injured Saturday when a fireworks show malfunctioned at Sunday River Resort, Maine, local officials said.

According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the incident occurred at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Barker Mountain Road when a 5-inch firework shell and mortar tube failed, resulting in a blast that injured a lead technician and two assistants. 

An assistant working on the show suffered what local officials called “significant injuries” from the explosion and was transported by air to Maine Medical Center in Portland. Local officials said Sunday she remains hospitalized and is recovering.

The show’s lead technician was taken to the Rumford Hospital, treated, and released the same evening. Another assistant suffered minor injuries and wasn’t brought to a hospital.

The Office of the State Fire Marshall stated that the fireworks display was part of Independence Day celebrations. According to Sunday River’s website, July 5 also saw lawn games, a scavenger hunt, and scenic chairlift rides, among other activities.

The rest of the show was cancelled following the malfunction, according to the Maine State Fire Marshal. No spectators were hurt. 

The cause of the incident is under investigation.