New Year's Eve drama in Starnberg: 14-year-old injured during fireworks

New Year's Eve drama in Starnberg: 14-year-old injured during fireworks

On New Year's Eve, a tragic incident caused excitement in Starnberg. A 14-year-old was injured on the lake promenade after setting off a fireworks rocket that had been given to him by family members. However, this rocket should only have been purchased and ignited by adults. How the Süddeutsche Zeitung Reportedly, the boy attempted to ignite the rocket from his hand, which resulted in an explosion and left him with moderate injuries to both hands.

The teenager's injuries were not without consequences; He suffered open wounds and burns and had to be taken to a clinic after first aid from the emergency doctor. The emergency services faced an additional challenge because the rescue route was blocked by incorrectly parked vehicles. The police have already announced that they will take strict action against parking violations in the future.

Accidents and riots on New Year's Eve

But the incident in Starnberg is not the only one that worries the security situation on New Year's Eve. In Germany, millions of people celebrated the New Year, but in many cities there were accidents, riots and even deaths. Two 18-year-olds lost their lives in Bielefeld after suffering fatal injuries from self-made pyrotechnics. Likewise, a 23-year-old near Rostock was seriously injured after a firecracker exploded and his left hand was torn off. In Leipzig, a 16-year-old girl sustained serious hand injuries when she tried to light an unauthorized New Year's Eve firecracker. These incidents shed a worrying light on how private fireworks are handled in Germany, as well daily news reported.

The situation became particularly tense in Berlin. Over 4,000 police officers were deployed to maintain order. There were numerous attacks on emergency services, more than 420 arrests and 30 officers injured. According to Interior Senator Iris Spranger (SPD), measures to prevent violence are urgently needed.

Doctors warn of dangers

The German Ophthalmological Society (DOG) renewed its warnings on New Year's Eve and emphasized that private pyrotechnics pose a high potential for danger. At the turn of the year 2024/2025, 905 fireworks-related injuries were documented - the highest number since the data has been recorded. Uninvolved people are often particularly affected, including many children and young people. According to this information, one patient died of severe head injuries. Several medical associations are calling for a ban on private fireworks and supporting a petition that was handed over to the Federal Ministry of the Interior. This was signed by over 1.9 million people, but the ministry has so far rejected a nationwide ban Medical Journal reported.

The discussion about the security situation and the dangers of fireworks is gaining momentum. While the AOK Federal Association urges the responsible use of fireworks, many citizens would like to see legal regulation. It is becoming clear that the dangers of private pyrotechnics can no longer be ignored.