AURORA, COLORADO – Authorities are conducting an investigation into an accidental death in Colorado following a deadly fireworks explosion near the Quincy Reservoir in Aurora. The incident claimed the life of a 42-year-old man from Strasburg.
Law enforcement was alerted to an explosion at the Grandview Dog Park on East Quincy Avenue in the early hours of Thursday. Reports indicate that three individuals had come from Strasburg to visit local food and beverage establishments before heading to the dog park with several large fireworks.
Tragedy struck as one of the individuals was reportedly lighting a firework when it unexpectedly exploded, resulting in his death. The aftermath of the explosion prompted a flurry of 911 calls and alerts in the neighborhood, leaving residents shaken by the unexpected event.
Witnesses described the impact of the explosion, with one resident, Ruth Cortes, recalling the sensation of a bomb going off, causing the building to shake. Another witness, Juan Molina, recounted the chaos that ensued following the blast, with individuals running and calling for help.
Authorities, including ATF investigators, the Arapahoe County Bomb Squad, and the Aurora Police Department, have joined forces to piece together the events leading up to the fatal explosion near Quincy Reservoir. Investigators have been working diligently to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident.
As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement officials have visited the deceased individual’s residence in Strasburg, where no evidence of explosive-making activity was found, and no additional fireworks were recovered. The dog park, initially reopened, was subsequently closed again as authorities continued to gather evidence and information surrounding the tragic event.
The identity of the victim has not been disclosed as the investigation remains ongoing, with authorities focused on understanding what transpired at the Grandview Dog Park that fateful night. Residents in the area have been left saddened by the loss of life and are awaiting further updates on the investigation.