New York City’s iconic Statue of Liberty was struck by a blaze late last night in what authorities are calling a “rogue sparkler incident.” The historic monument, a symbol of freedom and democracy, was partially damaged as fireworks enthusiasts’ sparklers went astray, igniting flames on the statue’s pedestal.
The fire, which broke out around 11:30 PM, was quickly noticed by nearby visitors and emergency personnel stationed on Liberty Island. Within minutes, firefighters arrived on the scene, working diligently to contain the flames before they could spread further. Thanks to their swift response, the fire was extinguished within an hour, but not before causing significant damage to the lower part of the statue.
Officials have confirmed that while the fire did not reach the statue’s copper-clad face, the base and surrounding areas were scorched. No one was injured during the incident, but the act has sparked concerns over public safety and the lack of control during holiday celebrations on the island.
The incident occurred during the city’s annual Fourth of July fireworks display, which traditionally draws large crowds to Liberty Island. Authorities are now investigating how the sparkler, which was not intended for such a large-scale display, could have caused such a destructive fire. The National Park Service has called for an immediate review of safety measures at Liberty Island to prevent future mishaps.
The Statue of Liberty remains a symbol of resilience and unity, but this unsettling event has raised questions about the balance between celebration and preservation of the nation’s cherished landmarks.
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