Picture courtesy of AP

 

A fireworks display turned into chaos at Düsseldorf's Rheinkirmes fair, injuring at least 19 people, including a child. Late Friday, fireworks unexpectedly exploded near ground level along the scenic Rhine river, causing panic among attendees.

 

Fire squad and emergency services swiftly arrived at the scene to manage the aftermath of the unexpected incident. Four individuals sustained serious injuries, necessitating urgent medical attention. Düsseldorf police have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the mishap.

 

The annual Rheinkirmes attracts thousands of visitors, making the incident an alarming highlight of this year's festivities. Eyewitnesses reported hearing sudden blasts, and images from the scene showed fireworks igniting uncomfortably close to bystanders. Event organisers are cooperating with authorities to ensure a thorough enquiry.

 

Safety concerns have risen among local residents and tourists following the freak accident. The fair continued, although heightened security measures were implemented to emphasise visitor safety during the ongoing investigations. The police are gathering testimonies and reviewing video footage to piece together the sequence of events.

 

Despite the chaos, attendees praised the swift response of emergency personnel, highlighting their crucial role in averting a potential catastrophe. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, with updates on their condition eagerly awaited by concerned loved ones.

 

Rheinkirmes, which is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and attractions, suffered an unprecedented disruption. Authorities are keen to reassure the public about the fair's safety, even as investigations proceed to ensure no repeat incidents occur.

 

WWith heightened scrutiny on future firework displays, the organisers are facing challenges in restoring visitor confidence. As Düsseldorf grapples with the incident’s aftermath, officials underscore the importance of stringent safety measures to protect revellers at large-scale events.

 

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from NBC News 2025-07-21

 

 

Take that, all you posters ragging on Thai rocket festivals...  It's not "Only in Thailand"

 

Fireworks are attractive to look at but should be controlled by people trained to handle explosive. The Germans haven't learned that it seems.

11 hours ago, impulse said:

Take that, all you posters ragging on Thai rocket festivals...  It's not "Only in Thailand"

 

 

There's very little that happens 'only in Thailand'. Except in the dim, barely flickering imaginings of some farangs.

On 7/21/2025 at 10:22 AM, Purdey said:

Fireworks are attractive to look at but should be controlled by people trained to handle explosive. The Germans haven't learned that it seems.

They did a pretty good job 80-85 years ago.