KOTTAYAM:A school student was killed and nine others injured in a fireworks accident during the annual festival at St George Church, Aruvithura, near Erattupetta, late on Thursday night. The deceased has been identified as Amal C Kurian, 16, of Chengazhasseril House, Theekkoy.
The accident occurred around 10.30 pm, near the parking ground, in front of the church on Thursday.
According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred in the third and final round of the fireworks display, being held as part of the ‘Thirunaal’ (Holy Day) celebrations at St George Forane Church here.
The highly explosive crackers accidentally caught fire and one of them fell in the midst of the crowd, seriously injuring Amal. Though, Amal was rushed to the Medical College Hospital, Kottayam, he succumbed to injuries on Friday. Amal a student at Alphonsa Residential School, Aruvithura was awaiting his Class X CBSE exam results.
Two of the injured Alan (17), of Karottu Cheruvil, Aruvithura, and Jose (53), of Karikkattoor, Manimala, have been admitted to Kottayam Medical College.
Alan (17), of Alumoottil House, Chemmannar Madhu (43), Johnson Isaac (48), Mayjo (37), Benny (49) and Fr George Kandathinkara (35) were admitted to a private hospital in Erattupetta. K M Mathew, (40), Senior civil police officer, who sustained injuries was admitted to Pala General Hospital.
The fireworks, which had been carried out at a ground away from the church for many years, was shifted to the park ground in front of the church this time, braving the warnings of the Police Department of a possible mishap.
Police have registered a case against Binoy, who is the licence holder of the fireworks, Vicar-General of the church, and office-bearers of church committee in connection with the accident.
