Fireworks explosion in Tuskahoma critically injures 3 — here’s what we know

Q: What happened in Tuskahoma?

A: A fire ignited commercial-grade fireworks during delivery Wednesday evening, critically injuring three people and sending two others to the hospital with minor burns.

The explosion occurred on the grounds of the Choctaw Nation Capitol—just one day before the scheduled Boom in the Valley fireworks celebration.

Q: Who was involved in the explosion?

A: All five injured individuals were employees of Hance Pyrotechnics, the company delivering the fireworks.

Q: What do officials say about the incident?

🗣️ Mike Woodruff, Chief of Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police:

“Please let me begin on behalf of the Choctaw Nation—we would like to express our concerns and our heartfelt prayers for these patients that were burned and also for their family members.”

Woodruff also confirmed the explosion caused some structural damage to nearby cabins.

Q: Is anyone local affected?

A: Yes—Cash Collins, a recent Vian High School graduate, was among those critically injured. His former teacher and coach, Jaykob Taylor, says Cash is known for his strength, work ethic, and heart.

Q: What did Coach Taylor say about Cash?

🗣️ Jaykob Taylor:

“He’s one of those people you want on your team—he fights tooth and nail for his teammates. He’s got so much love for his friends, his coaches, and his community.”

“He’s just your typical hard-nosed, hard-working country boy.”

Q: How is the community responding?

A: The Pushmataha County and Vian communities are coming together in support and prayer. Coach Taylor says there’s already been an outpouring of love for Cash and the others injured.

Q: Will the fireworks show still happen?

A: No. The Boom in the Valley celebration in Tuskahoma was canceled, and so has the Boomfest fireworks show in Jenks, which was also contracted through Hance Pyrotechnics.

Q: Is there an investigation?

A: Yes. The Choctaw Nation is investigating what caused the fireworks to explode during delivery.