Maplewood fireworks fizzle due to safety concerns

There was no grand finale for Maplewood's July 4th fireworks on Monday night.

Shortly after the show began, officials say, city staffers noticed that pieces of paper and cardboard from the fireworks were landing near where some of the estimated 16,000 people were watching.

So, "out of an abundance of concern for safety," city officials said in a written statement, they told the city's fireworks contractor to stop the show immediately.

Maplewood officials blamed a combination of weather conditions and "pyrotechnics malfunctions" for the disappointing halt.

Citizen Services Director Karen Haag said officials know the "abbreviated fireworks display was disappointing but our first priority is the safety and well-being of those who live, work and visit the city of Maplewood."

Paramedics heard from one person who reported a piece of ash in their eye from the fireworks, but who did not need transport for treatment.