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Diwali fireworks prompt police warnings, safety concerns in U.S.
This comes just weeks after a Ganesh Chaturthi celebration in Texas had drawn mixed reactions when crowds blocked a residential street.
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Malvika Choudhary - Sat, 25, Oct 2025
- 14:18 EDT
- 36
Litter after the Diwali celebration in Morrisville / FaceBook/ Morrisville Police Department
As Indian communities across the United States marked Diwali this week, several cities reported instances of fireworks violations that led to police warnings, safety concerns, and widespread debate among Indian Americans over cultural responsibility and public conduct.
In Morrisville, North Carolina, police said illegal fireworks were set off at Church Street Park, damaging the cricket field and leaving behind litter. “The incident jeopardizes community safety and negatively impacts local sports programs and park visitors,” the Morrisville Police Department said in a statement.
Also Read: FIA Chicago joins Sewa Diwali Food Drive
Authorities reminded residents that the private use of fireworks, including firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, and aerial pyrotechnics, is prohibited on public property without a permit. The department also noted that selling or possessing such fireworks is illegal under North Carolina law.
The post drew immediate reaction from residents and members of the Indian community, many of whom condemned the behavior. “As someone who celebrates this festival, this is so disappointing and irresponsible,” one user wrote. Another added, “Ignoring local laws and disrespecting locals is unacceptable. Hope you find them all.”
A separate incident in Jersey City, New Jersey, drew attention after a video surfaced online showing police and fire crews dousing fireworks on a residential street as onlookers cheered.
Residents said authorities intervened because fireworks continued past 10 p.m., violating local noise restrictions. While the celebrations were halted midway, residents reportedly cooperated with officers.
In Texas, police in Dallas, Frisco, and Melissa were seen visiting homes to warn residents against lighting fireworks. Several residents said they were informed that violations could lead to fines or citations. Similar warnings were issued in other states as well.
The incidents sparked strong reactions from Indian Americans online. Some diaspora members expressed embarrassment over the viral videos. “How difficult is it to follow the rules? Why do we always feel proud in crossing the line?” one comment read. Others described the scenes of littered streets and loud fireworks as “disrespectful to the communities that host us.”
Some called for designated public spaces for large-scale celebrations, similar to those available for Fourth of July fireworks, to prevent such confrontations in the future.
This comes just weeks after a Ganesh Chaturthi celebration in Texas had drawn mixed reactions when crowds blocked a residential street.
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