Seven injured – one seriously – after firework rockets into crowd at celebrations in Spain

SEVEN people have been injured after a firework shot into onlookers at a ‘falla’ celebration in Valencia, Spain yesterday afternoon (Saturday).

A 23-year-old  is reported to have suffered a “very big” wound to their neck after a firecracker exploded close to the public who were stood behind a security barrier.

National and Local Police and ambulances were quickly on the scene to treat the injured.

Five people, including the seriously injured person, were rushed to the La Fe Hospital in Valencia and two, including a retired Guardia Civil officer, were treated at the Hospital 9 de Octubre.

National Police officers have collected witness statements from the public and representatives of the pyrotechnics company.

The president of the falla committee, Rafa Ferrando, said he is “very affected” by the incident and expressed concern for the injured.

The fallas are traditional celebrations held in commemoration of Saint Joseph in the city. Huge papermache models are burnt during the celebrations and are often accompanied by spectacular fireworks.