A Fourth of July fireworks incident has shut down a large part of Gastonia after a Dollar Tree caught fire.
According to the Gastonia Police Department, South York Road is closed in the area while firefighters battle the blaze and police investigate what happened.
Authorities say a Gastonia man allegedly lit a firework and shot it into the Dollar Tree (2406 S York Rd), triggering an explosion that ignited the fire. No injuries have been reported.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes. Officials expect the roadway to remain closed for several hours as crews extinguish the fire and investigators process the scene.
The incident comes as communities across the region have reported an increase in fireworks-related calls around the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Fire officials continue to remind residents that fireworks can quickly ignite buildings, vegetation, and other combustible materials when used improperly.
The Gastonia Police Department and Gastonia Fire Department remain on scene. Authorities have not yet released additional information about possible charges or the extent of the damage.
Drivers are encouraged to avoid the section of U.S. 321 near South York Road until the investigation is complete and the roadway reopens.
