The Independence Day celebration in Buffalo has been canceled, with the city citing safety concerns and the inability to find a suitable location for the event.
The city's mayor, in a statement, expressed that an appropriate site could not be identified that would provide a safe and widely accessible viewing experience for residents.
This marks the first time in at least a generation that Buffalo has not hosted July 4 fireworks, despite hosting New Year's Eve displays in the past and other fireworks shows in various locations throughout the city.
Former New York State Republican Party Chair Rep. Nick Langworthy has criticized the decision, arguing that it was a choice rather than a logistical challenge.
Langworthy claimed that the city's leaders sent a clear message about what they value, and it wasn't patriotism.
Buffalo is set to celebrate "Stars Stripes and Signers" at the Buffalo Naval Park and Canalside area as part of ongoing America 250 celebrations.