The barge fire that led to the cancellation of Marblehead’s fireworks display and Harbor Illumination started “accidentally,” Fire Chief Jason Gilliland told the Current on Monday.
The fire broke out on the barge in the mouth of Marblehead Harbor on July 4 at approximately 1:30 a.m. Marblehead’s fireworks had not yet been loaded onboard.
Gilliland believes “there were still some hot materials leftover and smoldering” from when the barge was used in a Lynn fireworks show on July 3.
Marblehead Fireworks Committee Chairman Alexander Falk told the Current last week that there were no plans to reschedule the fireworks or Harbor Illumination.
This spring, the town signed a $50,000 contract with Atlas PyroVision Entertainment Group, Inc., to produce the fireworks display. All the money came from donations.
When asked what will happen with the $50,000 in donations, Falk said, “I cannot comment on that topic at this time.”
Marblehead, Gloucester and Beverly fire departments responded to the blaze, along with the Massachusetts Environmental Police and the Marblehead and Beverly harbormasters.
People in town were saddened to learn about the cancellation.
“What do our fireworks mean to us here in Marblehead, the home of liberty? It’s a celebration of all Marbleheaders did for this country,” longtime resident Christopher Butler said. “Fourth of July is kind of like our Christmas here in Marblehead.”
Crystal Leiser was visiting Marblehead from San Francisco.
“We flew all the way here to watch fireworks with friends,” Leiser said. “So yes, we’re disappointed.”
‘Think it through’
Meanwhile, back on land, Police Chief Dennis King said he received about 10 calls reporting illegal fireworks.
“Based on the calls, my concern is the amount of illegal fireworks and the danger they create,” King said. “Anytime you possess, sell or use fireworks in Massachusetts you’re committing a crime and could be subject to confiscation of the fireworks, a fine or arrest in some circumstances. It’s totally irresponsible to light off fireworks, especially in a town where many houses are close together or in wooded areas, parks or trails. I really wish people would think it through when they are setting off an explosive in town and the consequences that could result.”
Editor Leigh Blander is an experienced TV, radio and print journalist.
