Who:
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
Patrol Operations Bureau
Investigative Operations Bureau
-Arson/Auto Theft Unit

Florida State Fire Marshal

Wayne DeSmith (Injured)
DOB: 06/15/1983

What:
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office detectives assisted the Florida State Fire Marshal with an investigation after a firework injury caused extensive injuries to a man in Seminole.

When:
The incident occurred at approximately 8:22 p.m. on December 31, 2019.

Where:
The incident location was 8643 Kumquat Avenue in Seminole.

Why/How:
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office detectives assisted the Florida State Fire Marshal with an investigation after a firework injury caused extensive injuries to a man in Seminole.

On December 31, 2019, at approximately 8:22 p.m., deputies responded to an injured person call at 8643 Kumquat Avenue in Seminole.

When deputies arrived on-scene, they discovered 36-year-old Wayne DeSmith had been transported by ambulance to a local hospital for extensive injuries to his right hand.

According to detectives, DeSmith bundled four boxes of sparklers and wrapped the flammable ends together with black electrical tape. One sparkler projected out of the bundle, serving as a fuse.

Detectives say the wrapping of the bundle changed the nature of the sparklers, to a very large firecracker.

Detectives learned the firework detonated with a very large explosion before DeSmith had an opportunity to throw the bundle a safe distance away, causing extensive injuries to his right hand.

DeSmith was transported to the hospital to be treated for his injuries.

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office encourages firework safety for all holidays and celebrations.

The investigation continues.