Germany’s New Year’s Eve celebrations turned tragic as five people died and a police officer sustained severe injuries in fireworks-related accidents, authorities reported on Wednesday.

The country’s traditional use of powerful pyrotechnics, which sparks annual debates over their safety, led to multiple fatalities and injuries this year.

A 24-year-old man near Paderborn in North Rhine-Westphalia died after detonating a self-made pyrotechnic rocket, police confirmed.

In Saxony, a 45-year-old man in Oschatz succumbed to head injuries caused by a powerful F4 category firework, which requires a special permit. In Hartha, a 50-year-old man was killed instantly by a pyrotechnic pipe bomb.

Near Hamburg, a 20-year-old man died while lighting a firework, and in Kremen, near Berlin, another man lost his life due to “inappropriate manipulation” of pyrotechnics. Three others in the Berlin region were critically injured in similar incidents.

Nationwide, 30 law enforcement officers were injured, including one seriously wounded by an illegally manufactured firework, according to police spokesperson Florian Nath. Despite the incidents, Berlin police noted this year’s celebrations were relatively calm compared to previous years, with “no major violence or incidents.” Around 400 individuals were detained overnight in the capital.

The tragedies are expected to reignite discussions about stricter regulations on fireworks in Germany, given the recurring injuries, environmental pollution, and noise complaints linked to their use. While fireworks remain a cherished part of New Year celebrations, the devastating consequences cast a shadow over the festivities.