01/01/2024
675 times read
01/01/2024
675 times read
![](https://www.arabtimesonline.com/uploads/imported_images/2024/01/melbourne-new-years-eve-explosion-1024x577.jpg)
AUSTRALIA, Jan 1: Melbourne, Australia, witnessed an unexpected turn of events during its New Year's Eve celebrations, transforming a night of joy into tragedy. A catastrophic explosion occurred at a Mill Park backyard party around 11 p.m., leaving a 40-year-old man in critical condition with life-threatening injuries. The incident, reportedly triggered by chemicals poured onto a fire, affected a total of 15 individuals.
The impact of the explosion was severe, resulting in ten people being hospitalized, while others received on-site treatment for various injuries, including minor burns. The most critical case involves a man fighting for his life in serious condition, casting a somber shadow over the city's New Year's Eve celebrations.
In a separate incident, a 48-year-old woman from Altona faces the potential loss of an eye after being struck in the face by an illegal firework. A 20-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident, and subsequently released pending further inquiries. The list of fire-related accidents expanded as a 57-year-old woman from Tootgarook suffered injuries when a flare struck her home's window, leading to her rescue and hospitalization with non-life-threatening injuries.
Victoria Police has initiated investigations into these incidents, part of a series of fire-related accidents reported during the New Year's Eve celebrations. Assistant Commissioner Michael Granger emphasized the dangers associated with illegal fireworks, highlighting the potential for injury and property damage. Despite these unfortunate incidents, the majority of Melbourne's New Year's Eve festivities proceeded safely.
The police played a pivotal role in maintaining public order, undertaking extensive preparations, and utilizing search powers to seize 26 weapons. As Melbourne welcomes the New Year, law enforcement continues its dedicated efforts to ensure citizen safety, with ongoing investigations into the reported incidents.