Buena Park, California — Nearly one year after a tragic Independence Day celebration turned deadly, a 47-year-old Buena Park man has been charged in the fireworks-related death of 8-year-old Jasmine Nguyen.

Earl Decastro faces one count of involuntary manslaughter, along with charges of recklessly causing a fire resulting in great bodily injury and possession of dangerous fireworks exceeding 100 pounds. He was charged on Wednesday, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.

The Tragic Incident

On July 4, 2025, Jasmine, her mother, and her 7-year-old sister were at Decastro’s home on Cornflower Circle for a neighborhood party. According to prosecutors, Decastro set off fireworks in the street for over an hour before igniting a large, illegal $400 “cake” display as a grand finale. The device malfunctioned, shooting fireballs into the crowd and igniting additional illegal fireworks stacked nearby. Jasmine was struck and suffered fatal injuries. She was pronounced dead at UCI Medical Center.

The Orange County DA described the event as a “fun day of friends” that became a “nightmare” due to the reckless use of professional-grade illegal explosives.

Charges and Potential Penalty

Decastro was arrested and is accused of endangering partygoers by using prohibited fireworks. He faces a maximum of six years in state prison if convicted. The case highlights the ongoing dangers of illegal fireworks, which cause injuries and deaths every year despite statewide bans on consumer fireworks in many areas.

Jasmine’s family has expressed profound grief over the loss of their bright and joyful daughter. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with unauthorized fireworks displays, especially near children and families.

The family friend’s actions, prosecutors say, turned a celebration into an unforgettable tragedy.