Additional Coverage:
A Long Island community mourns after a tragic Fourth of July accident claimed the life of a local man and left another injured in separate fireworks-related incidents.
Gabriel Ruiz-Urresto, 37, was fatally injured around 9:30 p.m. while lighting a “mortar-style” firework at a backyard gathering outside his Central Islip home. According to the Suffolk County Police Department, the firework exploded near his head, causing fatal injuries. Emergency responders arrived promptly but were unable to save him.
In an unrelated fireworks accident on Callahans Beach, 45-year-old Jerry DiMucci of Fort Salonga suffered a serious facial injury when a firework he ignited detonated unexpectedly around 8:50 p.m. He was transported to Stony Brook Hospital, where police report his injuries are serious but not life-threatening.
The holiday brought further sorrow to Long Island as authorities investigate the suspected drowning of 6-year-old Kiara Paolasin, a Brooklyn elementary school student vacationing with her family in Southampton. Early in the morning, shortly after 8 a.m., Kiara entered the water at Sebonac Creek. Witnesses reported she fell and was swept into the Great Peconic Bay by a strong current.
After being pulled from the water by a nearby kayaker who brought her to shore, Kiara was rushed to Stony Brook Southampton Hospital but tragically was pronounced dead. A 16-year-old relative had attempted to rescue her but was unable to overcome the powerful current. Southampton Town Police are actively investigating the incident.
These heartbreaking events serve as a somber reminder of the dangers fireworks and natural water hazards can pose during holiday celebrations. Authorities urge residents and visitors to exercise caution and prioritize safety during festivities.