The night sky during New Year's Eve 2025 revealed the vibrant colors of fireworks, but for many celebrating across Italy, the festivities turned grim due to injuries from fireworks and firecrackers. Hospitals reported multiple cases where individuals suffered severe injuries, underscoring the dangers associated with such celebrations.
Initially, reports emerged from Taranto, where at least three men sustained serious injuries due to the explosion of firecrackers. Arriving at the emergency room of the Ss Annunziata hospital shortly after midnight, the first victim, described as being in grave condition, exhibited severe burns on his hands and legs. Two other injured parties included one with burns to the right hand and another with injuries to the lips and chin.
Meanwhile, Naples was not spared from similar chaos. A 45-year-old man was admitted to the Pellegrini Hospital with catastrophic injuries to his right hand after igniting a dangerous firecracker. Medical staff struggled to save his third finger, which was irreparably damaged, and had to amputate part of the second finger. Another man, aged 34, suffered similar fate as he also lost part of his right hand’s second digit due to another firecracker explosion.
Compounding the situation, authorities took action against illegal sales of fireworks during the night. A 48-year-old individual was arrested after carabinieri—local police—found ten homemade explosives during personal searches. Another couple of arrests involved two men aged 36 and 35, who were caught selling fireworks illegally from makeshift stalls, resulting in the seizure of around 16 kilograms of explosives.
The incidents didn’t stop there. Reports confirmed additional injuries across other Italian cities. Genova faced its own round of injuries and emergencies. At least three individuals were injured, including one man who lost significant tissue from his hand after mishandling fireworks—a reminder of the severe risks involved with unsanctioned pyrotechnics.
Local hospitals were inundated with calls during the night, many stemming from fireworks-related injuries, as responders struggled to manage the overload of emergency situations. "Emergency services were overwhelmed with calls from injured individuals," noted local officials, emphasizing the need for greater public awareness concerning safety protocols.
The festivities also witnessed reckless behavior, especially noted at Caricamento Square, famed for its vibrant New Year celebrations. Despite well-established bans on setting off personal fireworks, the area became chaotic as numerous youths disregarded public safety regulations and engaged in dangerous firecracker displays. The police struggled to maintain order amid the throng of celebrators, some carrying liquor bottles and participating in unsafe celebratory behaviors.
Inevitably, the night led to multiple small fires ignited by sparks from the explosions. Fire brigades were called to respond to dozens of incidents, including the most significant fire which broke out at Tortosa Street, claiming part of the structure adjacent to residential areas. Fires were also reported due to the igniting of rubbish bins and unwanted debris being set alight as people celebrated the New Year.
The chaos caused by fireworks, including misfires and the dangers of illegal sales, prompted serious dialogue among community leaders about future regulations and safety measures. With last year marking 36 injuries and the tragic loss of life during New Year's Eve celebrations, there are calls to instate stricter controls. One local hospital official summarized the situation noting, “This situation highlights the need for more stringent safety measures to avoid injuries during festive occasions.”
Authorities concluded the night with the promise of increased vigilance as the illegal sale of fireworks would continue to be monitored, with law enforcement actively pursuing those who engage in unsanctioned sales. Meanwhile, the community remains hopeful for safer celebrations next year as they recover from the chaotic incidents of New Year’s Eve 2025, urging all participants to prioritize safety during future festivities.