By CESAR JOLITO III

A 13-year-old boy was injured in a firecracker-related incident at the Eco Center Relocation Site in Barangay Butuan in Negros Occidental’s La Carlota City.

According to the La Carlota City Police Station, the incident occurred at around 7:30 p.m. when the minor was reportedly handling a firecracker locally known as a “grenade” on Sunday night, December 21.

Initial investigation revealed that the victim placed the firecracker inside a condensed milk can while holding it away from his body.

When the firecracker detonated, the metal could burst, sending fragments that struck the victim on the head and caused injuries.

At about 8:45 p.m., police received a call from a security guard informing them that the injured boy had been brought by his relatives to the Don Salvador Benedicto Memorial District Hospital.

Responding police officers immediately proceeded to the hospital to conduct an investigation.

The victim was given prompt medical treatment and was reported to be in stable condition.

Police authorities once again reminded the public, especially parents and guardians, to strictly monitor children and refrain from allowing them to handle firecrackers, citing the dangers associated with their use, particularly during the holiday season./CJ, WDJ