Two separate fireworks explosions in Suffolk County left one man dead and another seriously injured during Fourth of July celebrations Saturday night, police said.
The incidents occurred approximately 40 minutes apart in Central Islip and Fort Salonga.
Gabriel Ruiz-Urresto, 37, was lighting a firework during a party in the backyard of his residence at 38 E. Sycamore St. in Central Islip at approximately 9:30 p.m., according to Suffolk County police.
The firework exploded and struck Ruiz-Urresto in the head. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives are investigating the fatal explosion. Anyone with information can contact the squad at 631-852-6392.
Earlier that evening, Jerry DiMucci, 45, of Fort Salonga, was lighting a firework during a Fourth of July celebration at Callahans Beach at approximately 8:50 p.m., police said.
The firework exploded and struck DiMucci in the face. He was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment of serious injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Fourth Squad detectives are investigating the Fort Salonga incident. Anyone with information can call 631-854-8452.
Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Suffolk County Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, using the P3 Tips app or visiting P3Tips.com.
The sources do not identify the types of fireworks involved, say whether anyone else was injured or indicate that any charges were filed.
