Mountain Town Revamps 4th Celebration After Near-Death

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SILVERTON, Colo. (AP) - After the near death of a 14-year-old boy from alcohol poisoning at last year's Fourth of July celebration, a Colorado town has made changes to its largest and most popular event.

The Durango Herald reported Tuesday Silverton has planned family-focused events throughout the day, moved back the fireworks show to its traditional spot, banned camping in some troublesome areas, and will increase law enforcement presence at the celebration.

(credit: Larry R Miller)

According to San Juan County Sheriff Bruce Conrad, a group of nearly 160 minors camped above the town last year to drink and take drugs, trashing the grounds in the process.

The Sheriff's Office was alerted that a 14-year-old boy was "at risk of dying" from an alcohol overdose. He was airlifted to a nearby hospital where he eventually recovered.

LINK: business.silvertonchamber.org/.../july-3rd-celebration