ABILENE, Texas — Droves of people flocked to the area of Abilene's Hugh Sandifer Stadium Wednesday to celebrate Independence Day at the WesTex Connect Fireworks Spectacular.
As the show went on, many people, including Jason Swink, saw a glow near the stadium and knew it was not part of the festivities. A grass fire ignited near the stadium, according to the Abilene Fire Department.
Swink, who was recording video throughout the event and captured the scene, said, "I wasn't expecting a fire to break out, but it was a pretty big one to watch for the night."
The Abilene resident described the scene as he witnessed it, then the drones coming down from the sky.
"As the drone show ended, and they were trying to get them back to the ground, you see drones falling everywhere. Some were falling at a fast rate, with a red blinking light - others, you could tell they weren't coordinated with anything. So, as far as I know, I was right there next to the stadium, I didn't see or hear them hitting any people or cars or anything, but it's crazy going to a fireworks show and you've got drones falling out of the sky and then you've got to watch out and take cover if it starts falling out."
The AFD says there were no damages to any Wylie ISD structures.
WesTex Connect released a statement about the fire Thursday afternoon:
"Safety is our priority with the WesTex Connect Fireworks Spectacular. The fire that occurred at the event this year was a brush fire that was contained by the Abilene Fire Department & a rack on one of our own firework trailers. There were no injuries or evacuations needed. No damage was done to the Wylie schools, stadium, or other property.
We work very closely with the local fire department weeks, days, prior, during, and at the end of each event. Precautions are made and taken very seriously with each fireworks show. Fallout from a show happens every time, small brush fires are common, this is why the fire department is stationed on site in the fall out areas. Grass fires tend to look larger and closer at night. The fire was immediately contained by the Abilene Fire Department. AFD called in extra trucks just as another safety precaution. The fire area was monitored throughout the entire night to make sure hotspots did not cause a fire to reoccur. The Abilene Fire Department will continue to monitor the area just like they do with every fire no matter the size under their protocols.
We want to thank AFD so much for all they do for the city, their dedication, positive attitude, and professionalism as a fire fighter. While we regret the show was not exactly as planned, we are thankful for the safety of all. We thank our employees and crew who give up their holiday and work tirelessly to bring this show to you each year. We thank Wylie ISD for being a gracious host and allowing us to use their facilities in an effort to bring the Wylie community & the City of Abilene the 2024 Fireworks Spectacular. We thank our community supporters, sponsors, bands, and everyone who attended the event. We also thank those that have sent us positive and encouraging messages and offered to help. You are why we do this!
-WesTex Connect"
For the full interview with Swink, click here.