safety
Children airlifted to burn center after roasting marshmallows goes wrong
By Anna Ashcraft at KTSM 9 News (NBC)
· June 29, 2026
· 1 min read
Two children were airlifted to a burn center, and an adult was hospitalized after a backyard gathering in Oceanside went wrong when a small outdoor tabletop fireplace that was being used to roast marshmallows flashed and shot flames at the children, igniting their clothing.
Why this matters in The El Paso
The incident in Oceanside serves as a stark warning for El Paso residents who enjoy outdoor gatherings and backyard activities. As the weather warms up, many families in the El Paso area will be hosting similar gatherings, and it's crucial they take necessary precautions to avoid such accidents. The use of outdoor fireplaces and fire pits is common in the region, and residents should be aware of the potential risks associated with them, especially when children are present. El Pasoans should ensure that any outdoor fire feature is used in a safe and controlled manner, and that children are kept at a safe distance to prevent accidents like the one in Oceanside from happening in their own backyards. By taking these precautions, residents can help prevent similar incidents and ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience for everyone.
About this story
Original reporting by KTSM 9 News (NBC) . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KTSM 9 News (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 29, 2026 ·
Source: KTSM 9 News (NBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Two children were airlifted to a burn center, and an adult was hospitalized after a backyard gathering in Oceanside went wrong when a small outdoor tabletop fireplace that was being used to roast marshmallows flashed and shot flames at the children, igniting their clothing.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 29, 2026 by KTSM 9 News (NBC) and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Anna Ashcraft at KTSM 9 News (NBC). To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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