Man loses hand after explosive device detonates while helping with Fourth of July beach cleanup

DEL NORTE COUNTY, Calif. (KMAX) - A California man is recovering from losing his hand after an explosive device he picked up detonated.

Jason Turner was cleaning up trash along a beach in Crescent City following the July Fourth holiday when the reported explosion occurred.

Turner’s daughter, Autumn Turner, says her father was picking up firework debris left behind when he spotted what looked like a small silver ball lying in the sand.

But it wasn’t trash. It was a live, likely homemade firework.

“As soon as he picked it up, it exploded, and it blew off his hand,” Autumn Turner said.

Jason Turner was rushed from the beach to the UC Davis Medical Center, where doctors reportedly had no choice but to amputate his left hand.

But despite losing his hand in the ordeal, Turner’s family says he remains in good spirits.

“He’s the type of man to say he’s just glad it was him and not a kid or a dog, which he’s always been that type of guy,” Autumn Turner said. “It’s just sad for us; it was him.”

She hopes her father’s story serves as a warning that even the day after the fireworks stop, the danger can still be lurking in the sand.

“Be careful and watch whatever’s out there. Walking around or picking stuff up,” Autumn Turner said.

The Turner family says he also has partial vision and hearing loss, though it’s unclear whether those injuries will be temporary or permanent.

Police say if anyone discovers a suspicious item, they should move to a safe distance and contact local authorities.