Rome police and firefighters responded about 9:30 p.m. Saturday to a fireworks accident at Romano’s Pizzeria, 108 County Road Z, Rome/Nekoosa, Wisconsin.
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During a professional fireworks display at Romano’s Pizzeria, a five inch tube malfunctioned and exploded on the ground causing several more fireworks to explode. Debris hit the crowd of spectators. The fireworks display was being conducted by Sight and Sound Fireworks of Wisconsin Rapids in conjunction with Spielbauer Fireworks Co. Inc.
Derek Bodette, 28, a fireworks crew member, of Wisconsin Rapids and Marlene Fuller, 77, of Janesville, Wisconsin were airlifted by Theda Clark Helicopter to Theda Clark Memorial Hospital in Neenah, Wisconsin. Both victims were reported in stable condition.
A firefighter from Rome Fire Department was transported to Riverview Hospital where she was treated and released. Two other victims were transported via ambulance to Riverview Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Six others received medical treatment at the scene with no hospital trip required. Rome Police Department and Adams County Sheriff’s Department are investigating the incident.