New Year's Eve 2023 was marred by multiple incidents of violence and chaos across Norway as various cities reported significant disturbances linked to fireworks and brawls. From Oslo to Stavanger, the evening turned remarkable for all the wrong reasons.
At least five people were injured, with some requiring hospitalization due to injuries resulting from fireworks. The night was characterized by fights and injuries across several locations, driving emergency services to pull out all the stops to maintain order.
"It has been somewhat of an explosion which has caused at least one wall at the cabin to move. There are major damages and considerable forces at play," noted Bård Einar Hoft, head of operations at Innlandet police district, as reported by VG. This remark came after incidents of explosives appeared to take place near cabins, raising serious concerns about public safety.
South Norway Hospital treated two individuals for serious eye injuries linked to negligent fireworks use. A hospital spokesperson confirmed, "One of the eye injuries is severe, and the other is less serious. Both injuries resulted from New Year rockets. They were not wearing protective glasses or maintaining sufficient distance," indicating the self-inflicted nature of these wounds.
The Oslo police reported chaos as fights erupted outside Oslo S just past midnight. "A person attacked several individuals and has been arrested. They were extremely intoxicated and are being taken to custody," explained Eirik Sannes, the police operational leader, providing insight to the hectic atmosphere of the evening.
Reports from Ålesund indicated two teenage boys were severely injured by fireworks, with one sustaining serious hand injuries. Eivind Klokkersund from Møre and Romsdal police district remarked, "This occurred at Tennfjord, and both boys are getting the care they need. One patient had to be sent to the hospital for treatment and potential transfer to another facility due to the severity of the injuries," signaling the alarming impact of the mishandled fireworks.
The calm before the storm was short-lived as police throughout the region raised their readiness, equipped to handle the excesses associated with New Year's celebrations. Victoria Hillveg, from Sør-Øst police district, characterized the night as being busy, stating, "It has been as we expected, filled with fires, fights, disturbances, and violent incidents." Reports indicated at least two people were sent to hospitals after fights during the night.
Stavanger saw excesses too, where numerous brawls broke out, particularly affecting the nightlife district. Police were summoned multiple times to manage the disorder as fights broke out among revelers at taxi queues and outdoor parties. "One person was downed and likely suffered jaw fractures," police reported.
Besides violence among party-goers, there was extensive misuse of fireworks. Multiple reports indicated fireworks were discharged toward people and structures, raising immediate concerns among law enforcement about adherence to safety protocols. Klokkersund said, "We suspect several of the fires we have encountered may have been caused by fireworks, so we will be investigating this matter more closely. We have observed youths firing off fireworks toward others and structures, which is entirely inappropriate."
Nationwide, the picture painted was consistent—there was chaos resulting from overindulgence, especially concerning the misuse of fireworks and excessive alcohol consumption. Notable incidents included reckless firing of rockets and firework discharge at people, highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations governing the New Year festivities.
Only time will tell how the events of this New Year’s Eve will shape policies and public awareness surrounding safety during similar future celebrations. Many hope for tightened regulations concerning the sale and use of fireworks to prevent such incidents from occurring again.