.jpg?width=1200&auto=webp&crop=3%3A2)
- News
- World
- Americas
California authorities found a dangerous, illegal 357-shot ‘Cash Game 357’ firework, but its role in the blast is unclear
Erin KellerIn OhioThursday 04 December 2025 22:40 GMTComments
CloseUS, Los Angeles: Vermont Knolls Teen Killed By Alleged Homemade Firework Malfunction
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday
Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US
Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US
Email*SIGN UPI would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice
A teenager in California was killed after a fireworks device exploded as he handled it in the backyard of a home in South Los Angeles, authorities said.
Police and paramedics arrived at a house around 9 p.m. on Wednesday in the Vermont Knolls neighborhood after witnesses heard a blast and saw smoke from a backyard.
The 17-year-old, whose identity has not been released, was reportedly handling the firework when it went off accidentally.
Officials discovered him with critical injuries. He was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
No other injuries were reported.
.jpg)
A 17-year-old in California died after a firework he was holding accidentally detonated (Getty/iStock)Investigators are working to determine the exact cause of the blast, though early indications from the Los Angeles Police Department suggest it involved a malfunctioning homemade or high-powered firework.
At the scene, authorities found a box labeled "Cash Game 357," a 357-shot aerial firework “cake” or “repeater” known for producing a long, continuous display of aerial effects. It is unclear if it caused the blast.
This type of device is considered both dangerous and illegal under California law.
A bomb squad was called in to assist with the investigation and to secure the remaining fireworks and debris.
Early Thursday morning, around 6 a.m., the squad conducted a controlled detonation after discovering additional explosive materials on the property, Fox 11 reports.
Nationwide, around five people, often children, are killed by fireworks each year, according to MySafeLA . On average, 9,100 fireworks injuries send people to hospitals.
More about
CaliforniadeathsteenFireworksLos AngelesJoin our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments