Authorities: Teen threw lit firework from vehicle, striking woman; firework then exploded

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has announced two teenagers are facing charges after authorities say they threw fireworks out of their car, striking a victim in Beach Haven.

News 12 Staff

Jul 29, 2022, 9:44 AM

Updated 849 days ago

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The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has announced two teenagers are facing charges after authorities say they threw fireworks out of their car, striking a victim in Beach Haven.
The incident happened last Friday around 10:15 p.m. on Pennsylvania Avenue.
According to authorities, Justin Liebhauser, 19, of Randolph, was driving the Jeep Wrangler when Beach Haven Police pulled him over. Gianni Aveta, 18, of Wayne was a passenger in the car, along with three minors.
Authorities say Liebhauser handed a five-inch shell mortar firework to Aveta, who then lit the firework and threw it out of the passenger side of the vehicle, striking the victim.
The lit fireworks hit a 53-year-old woman. The firework exploded and struck her in the arm and rib area, causing her clothes to catch fire. She was treated for second degree burns to her arm.
Liebhauser and Aveta are facing charges of aggravated arson for the incident. Both were served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.