Fireworks in Los Angeles turned hazardous Friday night after Angel City FC’s post-match celebration at BMO Stadium malfunctioned and sent projectiles into the stands. The display came after ACFC’s 2-0 win over the Orlando Pride, in Leif Gunnar Smerud’s first game as interim head coach.
BMO Stadium and 13,900 fans
An announced crowd of 13,900 watched the match, and the pyrotechnic show was launched from center pitch on the grass field. Video posted on social media showed several fireworks misfiring sideways rather than overhead, with projectiles ricocheting off the field and into the stands as some fans ducked for cover.
A fireworks malfunction did occur during last night’s post-match celebration at Angel City FC’s game vs. Orlando at BMO Stadium.
Angel City FC and safety teams
Angel City FC said its medical and safety teams were on site and ready to respond. It also said stadium operations had determined the venue was secure and that guests, staff, players, and crew were able to depart safely.
The Los Angeles Fire Department did not respond to any calls or treat any injuries at BMO Stadium on Friday night, and a team spokesperson said Saturday night that the club was not aware of any serious injuries. That leaves the practical takeaway for fans simple: the club has moved the issue into an internal review with its pyrotechnics vendor, not into a broader public safety response.
Pyrotechnics vendor review
Angel City FC said it is working closely with its pyrotechnics vendor to review the incident and evaluate appropriate next steps. The club described the display as a pre-Independence Day fireworks show, a detail that also fits a busy Friday in the NWSL, where the Washington Spirit held a halftime fireworks show against the Houston Dash that produced substantial smoke before play resumed.
