Local fireworks company under investigation in Arkansas

Local fireworks company A.M. Pyrotechnics LLC is under investigation by Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin's office.

The company reportedly conducted last-minute cancellations of fireworks shows in Arkansas in recent days, according to Little Rock-based KARK. 

Jeff LeMaster, communications director for Griffin's office, provided a statement to Springfield Business Journal.

"This matter was brought to the attention of Attorney General Griffin, and he immediately opened an investigation. The investigation is active," the statement reads. "Communities should exercise caution when contracting for large purchases and require references, financials and proof of prior performance, for example."

Aaron Mayfield, CEO and owner of A.M. Pyrotechnics, said in a provided statement that the cancellations came during an "extraordinarily difficult season" for the company following a November 2025 accident at its facility.

"After that accident, A.M. Pyrotechnics suspended manufacturing operations while attempting to keep display operations open," the statement reads. "That suspension significantly affected finished inventory, operating resources, personnel availability and the company’s ability to complete every scheduled display."

According to the statement, A.M. Pyrotechnics completed 45 displays, including one in Arkansas, during the fireworks season.

"I sincerely regret the frustration and disappointment caused to affected communities," the statement reads. "Each cancellation decision was made on a show-by-show basis after reviewing finished inventory, qualified personnel, equipment, insurance, licensing, logistics, operating resources and whether A.M. Pyrotechnics could safely and professionally complete that specific display.”

A.M. Pyrotechnics, which is based in Buffalo, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February, according to past reporting. 

"Chapter 11 is a court-supervised reorganization process intended to address creditor claims while allowing a business to continue operating where possible; it is not an indication that a business has abandoned its obligations," Mayfield said in the statement.