People were spotted firing off fireworks at buildings and around people in the Navy Yard neighborhood of Washington, D.C., Friday night, after the Fourth of July fireworks display at the National Mall concluded. Most fireworks, including the ones seen in Navy Yard, are illegal in the district.
A video posted by anti-crime activist and Navy Yard resident Elissa DeSouza shows people firing off what appear to be roman candle-style and other exploding fireworks. The video was taken on N St Se next to Nationals Park.
Never again will I stay in Navy Yard for the 4th of July. #NavyYard pic.twitter.com/Le0yo73cW5
— Elissa De Souza (@ElissaDeSouza) July 5, 2025
A public information officer for the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police told the Washington Examiner that police were aware of the illegal fireworks usage and were called to the area. No arrests were made, and no other information was given regarding discipline for the hazardous behavior.
DeSouza says the perpetrators were “kids,” and said she left the area.
“It’s a shame those kids can’t see how they ruin things for other people. They need a better influences in their life. I am sure their parents contribute to their behavior. The shooting was scary too but not surprising. I packed up and left. Be safe this weekend,” she said in a post on X.
A different video showed people riding on bikes and firing exploding and roman-candle style fireworks at buildings. The Daily Mail reported that “police were circling in their vehicles but not taking direct action.”
Teenagers in DC shot fireworks into apartment buildings in Navy Yard as July 4th festivities wrapped last night.
Witnesses say police were circling in their vehicles but not taking direct action.
🎥Video posted to FB anonymously pic.twitter.com/LPK80bgOhV
— Katelyn Caralle (@Katelyn_Caralle) July 5, 2025
Washington, D.C., independent crime reporter under the NEWS FROM THE CONCRETE brand lamented that fireworks laws are rarely enforced.
“There is ABSOLUTELY NO enforcement with fireworks. Let’s be very honest about this. I just call it out instead of gaslighting my community. This is also WHY police radios should NEVER be encrypted. So the community can know how incidents are handled,” he wrote in a post on X.
WHAT TO DO IN DC FOR JULY FOURTH
Assistant DC Fire Chief Anthony Kelleher had urged district residents not to shoot off their own fireworks before the holiday.
“Fireworks can cause injuries and damage to property. Please, leave the fireworks to the professionals,” he said. “Fireworks that move, explode, or fly are illegal in the District of Columbia. Please make sure you and your family hydrate properly, wear lightweight and loose clothing, know the signs of heat-related illness, and know where to find shelter. Together, we will have a safe and happy July Fourth.”
