UPDATE: Firework device shoots into crowd in Hollister; five sent to the hospital

UPDATE 7/6/15: Hollister is known for it’s small town, fun especially on the Fourth of July. But on Saturday night, one block party’s fun turned serious in a flash and some young kids were sent to the hospital.

You could say Brigantino Drive in Hollister is a pretty patriotic street Saturday neighbors held their annual 4th of July block party. Chris Richey moved to the neighborhood in February, but didn’t take part in the block party because his daughter was sick.

“It was pretty wild last night. So I think that even if my daughter we’re feeling well we wouldn’t have been outside just for fear of, like what happened, basically a stray round if you will,” Richey said.

But other kids were outside when Richey’s fears were realized and a stray firework hit at least five of them. According to Hollister Police, a large firework launcher was set on Brigantino Dr. Once the firework was lit, it fell over and exploded right towards those watching, sending one kid to a Bay Area hospital with severe burns.

“I was mad. I was really, really mad,” Chief David Westrick said. “That’s probably going to involve some scaring, and that’s just horrible, this is Independence Day, this is a joyous occasion. We celebrate our countries independence it’s not a place to do irresponsible and just really dumb things.”

Police arrested Shaw Bourdet, 35, of Hollister, after he told police he was responsible. He now faces child endangerment charges and possession of explosives and a $1,000 fine for illegal fireworks.

“I’d like to see a higher fine and I’d like to get some of the neighbors helping us out. Letting us know when somebody is doing it and be willing to stand up and file a complaint,” Mayor Ignacio Velazquez said.

But not too many residents on this block wanted to talk about what happened and as for next year.

“Hopefully no one gets hurt. I definitely like how in to it our street gets, it’s nice to be on a street where everybody celebrates and gets in to stuff, so hopefully no more injuries,” Richey.

Hollister Police said this is an active investigation and are asking any other witnesses or victims to come forward

PREVIOUS STORY: Several spectators were injured after a firework was shot into the crowd Saturday night during a block party, according to Hollister Police Chief David Westrick.

Police said a large mortar, rocket launder firework, was set off on the street of the 1200 Block of Brigantino Drive. Once lit, the firework fell over and flew into a crowd, police said. Five people were taken to a hospital.

Injuries spanned from a broken leg to moderate to severe burns to several children. Their ages are unknown. Westrick said one child was flown to a bay area hospital for treatment.

Several other people were taken by private vehicle to hospitals for medical attention.

Police arrested Shawn Gregory Bourdet, 35, as “the responsible party,” police said. Bourdet told police he was responsible for the incident.

“This incident is a grim reminder of the dangers of fireworks. Some of these children will be scarred for life. Please be responsible in your celebrations and call us with any information on those that possess and use illegal fireworks,” Westrick said.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to call the Police Department at 831-636-4330.