A late-night firework incident in the Sunset Park neighborhood resulted in a lawn fire and a 911 response early Wednesday morning, raising new concerns among residents who say ongoing, late-hour explosions in the area have escalated in severity.
Around 12:25 a.m., a loud bang was heard in the 300 block near Sunset Park. A neighbor spotted a fire in a front yard and alerted the homeowners, who were asleep at the time. Several neighbors also reported hearing a vehicle speed away immediately after the explosion.
The fire was contained to the lawn, and no injuries or structural damage were reported. Salina Police and Salina Fire responded, and debris found at the scene included paper and tube-like fragments. By daylight, the cause was confirmed to be a mortar-style firework thrown from a moving vehicle.
Homeowner Alisha Jester said she is grateful for the quick actions of neighbors.
“We’re incredibly thankful for our neighbors who noticed the fire and woke us up. No one was hurt, and we’re lucky it was contained quickly. It’s a good reminder of how important it is to look out for one another,” Jester told Salina311.
Residents report that loud, single-firework detonations have been occurring almost nightly once it becomes dark, with times varying. Many say this pattern has been ongoing for years, but this incident marks the first time a firework has reportedly been thrown at or near a home.
“This has gone too far and is unsafe,” one resident told Salina311. “A home could have burned down. Someone could have been hurt or killed. Someone knows who is doing this. It’s not funny anymore.”
The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Salina Police Department’s non-emergency line.
