Deadly illegal firework explosion in Liberty Twp. leads to state-wide safety discussion

In response to the deadly explosion at a Liberty Township home that killed one man and critically injured two others, including a 4-year-old child, fire safety officials across Ohio came together Monday for a virtual news conference to warn the public about the dangers of homemade and illegal fireworks.

The explosion occurred Saturday night in an attached garage where, according to investigators, fireworks were being manufactured using materials pulled from legal, consumer-grade products. Officials say these homemade devices are incredibly dangerous and often unstable.

“Imagine trying to cut into a propane tank with a saw that grinds and makes sparks... needless and senseless,” said Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. “The most important thing is to let people know to just not do it. You can kill yourself or help kill someone else.”

Fire Marshal Brian Peterman explained that every step of the process is hazardous—from disassembling other explosives to mixing and lighting the finished product. “These people aren’t chemists,” he said. “They’re self-made chemists in their garage trying to make something to get a bigger boom. And that presents a danger in all facets.”

Fire Prevention Bureau Chief Anita Metheny added that Ohio has seen 507 fireworks-related fires in the past three years, including at least two deaths. Many of those incidents, she noted, happen in homes and buildings.

“We want you to enjoy it, but we want you to enjoy it safely,” Metheny said. “Just use some basic safety principles.”

Officials also said these makeshift fireworks are sometimes produced not just for personal use—but to be sold, which increases the risk to the broader community.

When asked whether materials used to make these explosives can be regulated more tightly, Reardon acknowledged that it's difficult to stop. “People disassemble things like commercial fireworks and even model rocket motors,” he said. “We most likely only find out after the fact.”

Fire officials said they hope the Liberty tragedy sends a clear message ahead of the July 4th holiday: leave fireworks to the professionals.