2 Killed in Fireworks Accidents in Germany

Two 18-year-old men have died following separate fireworks-related accidents in the German city of Bielefeld, police said on Thursday.

German police reported that both victims suffered severe injuries in incidents that occurred at different locations across the city during New Year’s Eve celebrations. Despite emergency response efforts, the injuries proved fatal.

The accidents took place in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia, where authorities routinely warn of the dangers associated with the improper use of fireworks during holiday celebrations.

Police said investigations into the exact circumstances of the incidents are ongoing. The deaths add to renewed concerns in Germany over public safety during New Year festivities, as emergency services across the country respond each year to fireworks-related injuries and fatalities.