Several arrests were made during the MadTree Red, White & Blue Ash after a group of approximately 400 unaccompanied youth set off fireworks numerous times, “intentionally causing panic” and injuring an officer, according to Blue Ash police.
Numerous social media posts reported families fleeing the Fourth of July celebration at Summit Park after hearing what they thought were gunshots. However, Blue Ash police reassured guests later that evening that they were just fireworks being set off.
“Thanks, everyone, for coming out to MadTree Red, White & Blue Ash! We’ve heard some rumors that people heard gunfire. There was no gunfire,” the department wrote on X. “It was juveniles setting off firecrackers near the canopy. There were no injuries that we are aware of.”
In a news release the following day, police said the Blue Ash officer that was injured sustained a burn to his leg from one of the firework and was treated and released from the hospital.
One juvenile was taken into custody for this incident and has been charged with assault on a police officer. At this time, no other fireworks injuries have been reported, according to officials.
“We understand this was a scary situation for many, and we hear you,” Blue Ash Police Chief Roger Pohlman said in the release. “It was an unfolding situation, and our officers worked quickly to apprehend the individuals involved. As we do after every event, we will review security protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of attendees and our officers.”
The department reports that there were 110 officers on duty which this included officials from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, SWAT, drone team and numerous other agencies throughout the region.
Police are continuing to gather information about this event and what transpired, anyone with information that could help in the investigation is urged to contact the police department at 745-8555.
This is an ongoing investigation, and more information will be released when available.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Arrests made, officer injured at Blue Ash Fourth of July celebration