News Summary
A store manager in Brooklyn has been arrested for selling over 1,000 illegal fireworks worth around $250,000. The arrest followed a tip-off and a coordinated operation by law enforcement agencies. The investigation revealed a wide range of prohibited fireworks on the shelves, and the manager faces multiple charges, including reckless endangerment and unlawful fireworks dealing. Authorities are stressing the importance of adhering to fireworks regulations in New York City to ensure public safety, especially as the Fourth of July approaches.
Brooklyn – A store manager has been arrested following a significant bust involving the sale of over 1,000 illegal fireworks valued at approximately $250,000. The operation took place on June 24, 2025, at the Everbright Trading Company, located on Flushing Avenue near Varick Avenue. The arrest was the result of a collaborative effort among several law enforcement agencies, following a tip-off from the Riverhead Long Island Fire Marshal’s Office.
During the investigation, fire marshals, disguised as plainclothes officers, visited the store and discovered an alarming array of illegal fireworks. Shelves were packed with prohibited items, including aerial “cake-style” rockets, handheld Roman candles, and large sparkling devices. After confirming the presence of these illegal products, undercover agents attempted to make a purchase to further substantiate the operation.
A search warrant was ultimately executed at the site, leading to the seizure of the extensive stockpile of illegal fireworks. The operation underscored the serious nature of the offenses linked to the storage and sale of such items, particularly given the substantial risks they pose to public safety.
The store manager, identified as Lisen Pan, 42, was arrested during the bust. Pan now faces multiple legal charges, including criminal possession of a weapon, reckless endangerment, and unlawfully dealing with fireworks and dangerous fireworks. Additionally, seven criminal summonses and three Fire Department of New York (FDNY) summonses were issued, addressing violations related to the illegal storage of fireworks, obstruction of sprinkler systems, and obstructing means of egress in emergency situations.
Collaboration and Public Safety Concerns
This law enforcement action was a coordinated effort among the FDNY’s Bureau of Fire Investigation, the Bureau of Fire Prevention, and the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office. Officials emphasized the critical nature of addressing these illegal activities, highlighting the potential dangers posed by the large quantities of illegal fireworks that were allegedly handled by Pan.
Legal Context on Fireworks in New York City
Authorities have reiterated their warnings concerning the legality of fireworks within New York City. Under current regulations, all consumer fireworks—including sparklers—are illegal to use, buy, sell, or transport. The restrictions are aimed at preventing accidents and maintaining safety, especially in urban areas where densely populated conditions can exacerbate risks associated with firework use.
Encouraging Responsible Celebrations
As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, officials are encouraging New Yorkers to celebrate responsibly. Emphasizing public safety, they call on residents to be mindful of the laws surrounding fireworks and to participate in sanctioned events rather than resorting to illegal alternatives that can pose significant risks to both individuals and community safety.
This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to ensure public safety in Brooklyn and throughout New York City, as authorities remain vigilant against illegal fireworks operations.
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Additional Resources
- NY Daily News
- Wikipedia: Fireworks
- ABC 7 NY
- Google Search: illegal fireworks New York
- Silive
- Google Scholar: fireworks safety regulations
- New York Post
- Encyclopedia Britannica: firework
- CBS News
- Google News: fireworks regulations New York
