San Francisco police manage illegal fireworks chaos during July 4 celebrations

The San Francisco government meeting on July 9, 2025, focused on the city's preparations and challenges during the July 4 celebrations. Officials highlighted the extensive measures taken to ensure public safety amid concerns about illegal fireworks and their potential dangers.

A report from the San Francisco grand jury, released in May 2024, was referenced, detailing the harmful effects of fireworks, including mental trauma for vulnerable populations such as children, veterans, and pets, as well as environmental pollution and fire hazards. The report emphasized the need for the city to control illegal fireworks and manage public gatherings at known hotspots to prevent dangerous situations.

During the July 4 festivities, the city deployed all available police officers, resulting in a significant number of emergency calls related to fireworks. There were 47 priority explosions reported, alongside numerous disturbances and fire-related incidents. Notably, one building fire and multiple grass and trash fires were attributed to fireworks, with ten reported injuries.

Despite these challenges, the overall event was deemed successful, with good weather and a well-coordinated movement of crowds at popular viewing locations. However, several incidents in the Mission District raised concerns. At multiple intersections, large crowds engaged in dangerous behavior, including launching commercial-grade fireworks and throwing objects at law enforcement. Police used amplified dispersal orders and less-than-lethal projectiles to manage the crowds, resulting in no reported injuries.

In one incident, an 18-year-old was arrested for multiple charges related to fireworks, while another arrest involved a gang-affiliated suspect found with a firearm and illegal substances. The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges the city faces in balancing public celebrations with safety and law enforcement.