Batavia trying to reschedule fireworks, but when is to be determined

The Batavia fireworks show, abruptly canceled Tuesday night, likely will be rescheduled - but not for this week.

New dates are being discussed by the private Batavia Fireworks Committee, vendor Pyrotecnico and city officials.

City Administrator Laura Newman said it won't happen this weekend because the Windmill City Festival is scheduled. The festival is run by the park district, but police and fire services are required.

The show was supposed to go on at 9:30 p.m. Tuesday. A preshow test went well. But at 9:29 p.m., the primary and backup firing boards crashed, committee Chairman Mark Davis said.

He dispelled rumors that the problem was caused by wireless internet technology. The boards were physically connected by wires to the fireworks, Davis said.

The same boards worked fine at a fireworks show the previous day, he said.

"We're just as disappointed as everybody else," said Davis, who has been chairman of the show for 13 years. "My grandkids were there, too."

The show is paid for by donations. The city donates police and fire services.

Police Chief Shawn Mazza estimated 2,000 to 3,000 people attended the show, which featured entertainment and food trucks beforehand. Mazza said despite the abrupt cancellation of the show, he was impressed with the civility of the crowds. He reported no issues with disturbances after the show and suggested optimism overcame the frustration.

Newman said, "We're all disappointed and so sorry for the residents who look forward to that every year and made the trip out. If we had known these technical difficulties existed, we certainly would have put the word out earlier."

• Shaw Media reporter David Petesch contributed to this report.