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NewsNBC4 Los Angeles — Orange CountyJuly 1, 2026Orange

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
Read the full story at NBC4 Los Angeles — Orange County

Why It Matters

The case establishes legal accountability for the use of illegal fireworks in Orange County, with the defendant facing up to six years in prison if convicted.

Key Facts

  • Earl Decastro is charged with one felony count of involuntary manslaughter.
  • The defendant faces additional charges of illegal possession of over 100 pounds of dangerous fireworks and 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, 8-year-old Jasmine Nguyen, died at UCI Medical Center after being struck by an explosion caused by malfunctioning illegal fireworks.
  • Police were already patrolling the area due to reports of a large amount of fireworks before the incident occurred.

Who's Mentioned

locationUCI Medical Center“Hospital where the victim was transported”personTodd Spitzer“Orange County District Attorney”personEarl Decastro“47-year-old defendant charged with involuntary manslaughter”location8000 block of Cornflower Circle“Location of the incident”personJasmine Nguyen“8-year-old victim of the fireworks explosion”organizationOrange County District Attorney’s Office“Prosecuting agency”