Kalamazoo, MI: On Wednesday, June 27^th, 2012, at approximately 11:49 p.m., Kalamazoo Public Safety officers responded to a report of an injured female in the 1700 block of Hawk Dr. Upon arrival, officers found a 38 year old Kalamazoo resident with severe burns to her body. After speaking with involved parties, officers determined that the victim was injured as she lit fireworks. The victim was transported to Bronson Hospital and is listed in critical condition with extensive second and third degree burns to her hands, arms, torso and face. Alcohol is believed to have contributed to the cause of the accident. The incident remains under investigation.

Kalamazoo Public Safety urges everyone to follow safe practices when using fireworks.  A few steps of prevention can eliminate a disastrous injury or fire. Further information can be obtained at www.fireworksafety.com  and www.NFPA.org.

Anyone who may have information regarding this investigation is asked to call Kalamazoo Public Safety at 337-8994 or Silent Observer at 343-2100 or www.kalamazoosilentobserver.com.

By authority of:  Lt. Matt Huber

Date:  June 27^th, 2012

Address:  150 E. Crosstown Parkway, Kalamazoo, MI 49001

Contact:  Captain Julie Parsons, Criminal Investigations Division, 337-8139