Chaos and Injuries Mar Fireworks Celebration at Thomas A. Cloud Park in Huber Heights
HUBER HEIGHTS, OHIO — Saturday night’s annual Star-Spangled Heights fireworks event at Thomas A. Cloud Park was rocked by chaos and injuries after a false alarm of a shooter sparked widespread panic among attendees.
According to eyewitnesses, the disturbance began when someone shouted “shooter” during the event, sending hundreds of families and residents scrambling for safety. Although authorities later confirmed there was no active shooter and no gunfire, the ensuing stampede resulted in multiple injuries.
One witness described seeing several young people hurt, including a girl who was carried out on a stretcher. Police were seen making multiple arrests, with at least one van full of individuals taken into custody after officers subdued some attendees.
Emergency medical teams responded promptly to treat those injured, and several victims were transported to nearby hospitals. Officials are still assessing the full extent of the injuries.
In addition to the panic, witnesses reported disruptive behavior earlier in the evening, with groups of juveniles throwing fireworks at people and into trash cans. This reckless conduct may have contributed to the heightened tension and confusion.
Law enforcement agencies, including officers from Butler Township, were called in to assist with crowd control and to maintain order throughout the chaotic night.
Huber Heights Mayor Jeff Gore addressed the incident, emphasizing that no shots were fired and urging the community to come together following the unsettling event.
The Star-Spangled Heights celebration is a long-standing tradition designed to unite the community during the July Fourth holiday. This year’s event, however, was overshadowed by fear and disorder, raising concerns about safety and supervision at future public gatherings.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with additional information or video footage related to the incident to contact the Huber Heights Police Department.