In a devastating incident, a 37-year-old gardener, Hector Mayoral, suffered severe injuries including the loss of his left hand and vision in his right eye after unknowingly picking up an unexploded firework in Torrance, California. While mowing a lawn on July 8th, Mayoral spotted a small, unfamiliar object amidst some debris. Thinking it was trash, he reached down to pick it up, but the object detonated in his hand.

The explosion left Mayoral with extensive injuries, including the loss of most of his left hand and fingers, as well as the sight in his right eye. He also sustained numerous lacerations across his body. Emergency responders, including paramedics, police, and a bomb squad, rushed to the scene. One neighbor who witnessed the event and aided Mayoral reported that a bomb technician described the explosive as likely "larger than an M-80."

The incident has left Mayoral unable to work, and he lacks insurance to cover the mounting medical expenses and necessary medications. His family has established a GoFundMe page to assist with the financial burden, which has already raised over $56,000. The fundraiser emphasizes Mayoral's gratitude for his survival but acknowledges the significant financial challenges he now faces.

Mayoral's family indicates that he will likely need surgery on his injured eye and hopes to eventually receive a prosthetic hand. However, the cost of these procedures poses a significant obstacle. The family expresses their deep appreciation for the support received and hopes to alleviate some of the stress Mayoral is currently experiencing.