The Bryan County Sheriff’s Office dispersed a large, unorganized fireworks show in Cartwright on July 4 after many people called police, the sheriff’s office said.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded to numerous calls shortly after 10 p.m. about a large, unorganized gathering near the Highway 91 and Boat ClubRoadintersectionwhere people were discharging fireworks, including on State Highway 91. There also were numerous reports of people brandishing firearms at each other, and minors drinking alcoholic beverages.
Videos posted on social media by Shellie Rene’e O’Brienshowfireworksbeing discharged near a fireworks stand and a gasoline station and in the roadways. Many commented on social media that the fireworks gathering has been happening for years and there were also reports of fireworks being discharged at cars. Texas residents were reported to have participated as well.
Sheriff Joey Tucker said that to protect the public and restore the safe flow of traffic, deputies, with assistance from other agencies, dispersed the crowd and reopened the highway.
“I want to make it very clear that this gathering was not organized, sponsored, or sanctioned by the Town of Cartwright or any other known organization,” Tucker said, in the social media post. “It was an informal gathering that rapidly grew in size and created an unsafe environment for everyone involved. State highways are designed for the safe movement of traffic, not for gatherings, parties, or the discharge of fireworks.”
Tucker said state law prohibits stopping, standing or parking in a way that obstructs traffic or creates a hazard on public highways.
Also, Oklahoma law prohibits the reckless discharge of fireworks in a manner that endangers people or property, including throwing or igniting fireworks at or near groups of people, according to Tucker.
“While the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office fully supports families celebrating our nation’s independence, we ask everyone to celebrate responsibly,” Tucker said. “Fireworks, large crowds, alcohol, and roadways are a dangerous combination. The events that unfolded [Saturday] night could have easily resulted in a tragedy.
“Fortunately, … we are not mourning the loss of life, nor are we dealing with any major injuries resulting from this incident. For that, we are extremely grateful.”
The sheriff’s office will continue to investigate criminal activity from the incident, including people responsible for crimes such as assaults, firearm-related offenses, and providing alcohol to minors. Tucker said people will be held accountable if there is evidence to file criminal charges.
“I would also like to personally thank every deputy and each of our assisting law enforcement and emergency response partners who worked professionally under challenging circumstances to restore order and protect the public,” Tucker said. “As our communities continue to grow, so does our responsibility to keep celebrations safe for everyone. We encourage those attending future events to respect the law, keep roadways clear, celebrate responsibly, and remember that no celebration is worth risking someone’s life.”
Contacted on Monday, Tucker said that the sheriff’s office is still going through videos and reports to identify the main problem causers.
“We do plan on taking preventable measures before it can start next year,” Tucker said. “The biggest problem is it is not an event sponsored by the town or any other entity, so it’s a free for all. I have neverseenitsocrazyinallmy years.Wehadnochoicebutto end it for public safety. OHP and the Corps (of Engineers) are on board as well.”