Fireworks chaos on Broadway leads to multiple arrests on Fourth of July
A downtown Fourth of July celebration turned chaotic late Friday night when Columbus Police officers responded to dangerous fireworks activity that escalated into multiple arrests involving both juveniles and adults.
According to a press release from the Columbus Police Department, officers were on patrol around 11:00 p.m. when they witnessed large mortar-style fireworks and Roman candles being launched directly toward families and diners seated outside a restaurant on Broadway. The situation quickly became hazardous in the crowded entertainment district.
Two juveniles, ages 14 and 15, were detained after officers discovered backpacks filled with fireworks in their possession. While police were taking the minors into custody, an adult female allegedly interfered with officers and physically resisted arrest. She was subdued and taken into custody without injury.
As officers attempted to manage the situation, two unrelated individuals began filming the scene. Despite officers’ instructions to maintain a safe distance due to the involvement of minors and for officer safety, the individuals allegedly refused to comply and continued interfering. Both were subsequently arrested.
The situation escalated further when several adults, identified as parents or relatives of the detained juveniles, arrived at the scene. Police reported that although the juveniles were set to be released to their guardians, tensions flared when officers informed the group that the interfering adult female would be taken to jail.
Several individuals allegedly attempted to forcibly remove the woman from police custody and refused repeated lawful commands. Officers say the group obstructed efforts to maintain order, resulting in additional arrests. Two individuals reportedly grabbed officers and interfered with ongoing arrests. They, too, were taken into custody.
Amid the disorder, fireworks discharged by the juveniles reportedly ignited a small fire near a downtown building, creating a significant fire hazard. The fire was extinguished quickly and no injuries were reported.
Earlier in the evening, police had responded to complaints of teenagers recklessly discharging fireworks near large public gatherings for the city’s official display. Officers also investigated a report of gunfire in the Bay Avenue area, where a vehicle was damaged. The group of teenagers later moved toward the Broadway district, continuing to cause disruption.
In total, seven adults now face charges including Disorderly Conduct, Obstruction of Officers, and in some cases, felony obstruction. The two juveniles have been charged with Reckless Conduct and Obstruction.
Despite the turmoil, police acknowledged the cooperation of at least two individuals, relatives of the juveniles, who assisted in calming tensions during the incident.
“The Columbus Police Department’s primary goal on holidays like the Fourth of July is to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all residents and visitors,” the department stated. “This situation was in the process of being resolved peacefully until repeated interference escalated tensions.”
The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Sgt. S. Hayes at 706-225-4268 or [email protected].
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