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NewsNBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – LocalJuly 1, 2026Los Angeles

Buena Park man charged in fireworks death of 8-year-old

A 47-year-old Buena Park man has been charged with involuntary manslaughter following a 2024 fireworks explosion that resulted in the death of an 8-year-old girl. The suspect faces multiple felony charges related to the possession and use of illegal fireworks.

public safetylegalfireworkscrimeBuena Park
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Why It Matters

The case establishes legal accountability for the use of illegal fireworks, with the defendant facing up to six years in prison if convicted of charges including and illegal possession of explosives.

Key Facts

  • Earl Decastro is charged with one felony count of involuntary manslaughter.
  • The defendant faces additional charges for illegal possession of over 100 pounds of dangerous fireworks.
  • The defendant is charged with recklessly setting fire causing great bodily injury.
  • The maximum potential sentence upon conviction is six years in prison.
  • The incident occurred on July 4, 2024, in the 8000 block of Cornflower Circle in Buena Park.
  • The victim, Jasmine Nguyen, died at UCI Medical Center shortly after the explosion.
  • Police were patrolling the area due to reports of a large amount of fireworks prior to the incident.

Who's Mentioned

personJasmine Nguyen“8-year-old girl who died following a fireworks explosion.”locationUCI Medical Center“Hospital where the victim was transported.”personTodd Spitzer“Orange County District Attorney.”location8000 block of Cornflower Circle“Location of the incident in Buena Park.”personEarl Decastro“47-year-old man charged with involuntary manslaughter and other felonies.”organizationOrange County District Attorney’s Office“Prosecuting agency for the case.”