An Orange County man is facing criminal charges in connection with a fireworks explosion that killed an 8-year-old girl during a Fourth of July celebration last year. Prosecutors allege that 47-year-old Earl Decastro ignited both legal and illegal fireworks during the neighborhood gathering. Authorities say one of the illegal fireworks malfunctioned, tipped over, and began firing directly into a crowd of spectators. Eight-year-old Jasmine Nguyen was struck and killed during the incident, while others narrowly escaped serious injury. Following a lengthy investigation, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office has charged Decastro with involuntary manslaughter, along with multiple additional felony counts related to the use of illegal fireworks. Prosecutors say the case serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by illegal pyrotechnics, especially during holiday celebrations. Decastro is expected to appear in court to face the charges as the case moves through the criminal justice system in Orange County.
