GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — On a day where the rockets red glare was seen in skies all across America, some folks in Gaston County kept a wary eye out for fireworks.
Residents, police officers and first responders have all been victims of a group of individuals in the county they say use America’s birthday as an excuse to fire fireworks directly at objects – or people.
Witness Steven Cali said the mayhem has already begun. He saw a person leaning out a car window, firing off a roman candle in what can only be described as a "drive-by fireworking."
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Cali said that person was firing it like a weapon.
“Firing anywhere they wanted to. Up in the sky, up the street, down the road,” he said. “I assume at other cars.”
Sadly, it’s not uncommon. Police said they’ve even been targeted.
Residents told Channel 9 about fireworks bursting through their homes or apartment, causing damage and injury.
In North Carolina, anything that explodes or flies through the air is illegal.
For those caught firing fireworks at people, the charges could include assault, or something even stronger depending upon the injury to the person.
Officers in Gaston County say those involved in shooting off the fireworks at people or property often work in groups. Authorities have had limited success in previous years catching these groups and pressing charges.