KINGSTON, NY — A 39-year-old Kingston man has been arrested after fireworks given to his 12-year-old son accidentally ignited a house fire on Elmendorf Street Wednesday evening.
The Kingston Fire Department responded quickly to the blaze at 176 Elmendorf Street on July 2, successfully extinguishing the flames before the fire could cause further damage or injury.
According to police, Matusalem Tiul-Cac provided his son with sparkling fireworks that had been legally purchased from a local vendor. While the child was using the fireworks under his father’s supervision, one of the devices ignited the structure, sparking the emergency response.
As a result, Tiul-Cac has been charged with a misdemeanor: unlawfully dealing with fireworks and dangerous fireworks.
Police Issue Fireworks Warning
The Kingston Police Department used the incident to issue a broader warning to the public about the dangers of fireworks—even those that are legal.
“Fireworks are inherently dangerous, including those that are permitted by law,” officials said in a public statement. “They should be used only as directed and only by responsible adults.”
Authorities emphasized that adult supervision does not always prevent accidents, especially when children are directly involved in handling pyrotechnics.
No Injuries Reported
Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. The extent of the damage to the home has not been publicly detailed, but the fire served as a stark reminder of the hazards associated with fireworks, particularly in residential settings.
Community Urged to Celebrate Safely
As Fourth of July celebrations continue across the Hudson Valley, local law enforcement and fire officials are urging residents to use extreme caution when handling fireworks. While certain types of sparklers and novelty devices are legal in parts of New York State, they can still cause fires, burns, and other serious injuries when misused.
Parents are especially urged to keep fireworks out of the hands of children—even when they appear harmless. Kingston authorities advise residents to attend public, professionally managed fireworks displays instead of lighting their own.
Legal Fireworks Still Pose Risks
While sparkling devices and similar items are available for legal purchase in many areas, their misuse—especially by minors—can result in legal consequences for the supervising adult. In Tiul-Cac’s case, what began as a festive moment turned into a criminal charge and a fire emergency.
Kingston Police have not disclosed whether additional charges will be filed, but the case remains under investigation. No court date has been announced.
Residents with questions about legal fireworks usage or safety guidelines are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or visit the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services for more information.
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