Ostrava police charge four after pyrotechnics explosion

Police in the Moravian-Silesian region have charged four individuals following a pyrotechnics explosion in Ostrava-Vítkovice. The incident occurred on April 19 near a railway station as approximately 1,000 Baník Ostrava fans were gathering for a march to a football match against Bohemians Praha 1905.

The explosion caused several injuries, most notably a 20-year-old man who suffered devastating facial injuries and required multiple surgeries. Investigators determined that the suspects handled the pyrotechnics in violation of the manufacturer's instructions, creating a significant danger to those nearby.

Three men, aged 21, 22, and 23, face charges of public endangerment due to negligence, which carries potential prison sentences ranging from six months to five years. Criminal proceedings have also been initiated against a juvenile. Authorities noted that the severity of the consequences was mitigated only by coincidence.