Chihuahuas fireworks display goes awry (with video)

The El Paso Chihuahuas’ dramatic come from behind ninth inning victory Thursday night was followed by an equally dramatic malfunction at a postgame fireworks display.

After Benji Gonazalez’s bases loaded single brought home Jason Hagerty for the winning run in a 5-4 walk-off victory, most of the announced crowd of 9,231 remained in the stands for a post-game fireworks display.

Witnesses tell ABC-7 that a launcher appeared to tip over, sending large fireworks from the field toward the left field wall, where spectators were still gathered on the “Peter Piper Porch.” One spectator suffered minor injuries, and received first aid from ballpark personnel. The team says that person was able to go home with family.

Hillary Floren was attending the game with her family. “It was crazy,” she said. “(Very large) fireworks were shooting right behind the stands.”

Chihuahuas Marketing and Communication Director Angela Olivas confirmed the incident. “During the fireworks spectacular following the game, there was a fireworks shell malfunction,” Olivas said. “It was isolated to the playing field area.”

Olivas and witnesses tell ABC-7 the field-based portion of the show was discontinued, while off site fireworks continued from a separate location.

The Chihuahuas say tonight’s scheduled fireworks show will go on as scheduled, following tonight’s game against the Fresno Grizzlies. Game time is 7:05 p.m.