10-year-old boy in Osijek loses fingers in firecracker accident

A 10-year-old boy in Osijek suffered serious injuries after a firecracker exploded in his hand last night. Doctors were forced to amputate two fingers on his left hand.

The circumstances of the accident are under investigation.

Police are once again urging the public not to allow children to handle fireworks, warning that even small firecrackers can cause severe injuries if used improperly.

“The injury involves three fingers, including the thumb, where there was significant bone damage. Besides the soft tissue and muscle, we were able to save the tendons. However, parts of his fingers had to be amputated due to the extent of the damage,” said Dr. Krešimir Ivković, head of Pediatric Surgery at Osijek Hospital.

Authorities also reminded the public that firecrackers are banned in Croatia year-round, and children under 14 are not allowed to handle any pyrotechnic devices. Fireworks may be sold only in licensed shops between December 15 and January 1, while their use is permitted exclusively from December 27 to January 1. Violations can result in fines ranging from 130 to 2,000 euros.