In a quiet rural village in West Sussex, England, a private fireworks display turned into a public controversy almost overnight.
What began as a celebration ended with the death of an animal and a wave of public outrage.
The central figure in the incident is Dean Richmond, a wealthy businessman and the owner of a major pet retail chain.
After a high-profile divorce, he moved into a newly purchased mansion valued at four million pounds.
He currently lives there with his new partner, a fashion model, hoping to start a more glamorous chapter of his life.
Instead, one night changed everything. 
Bonfire Night Turns Into a Neighborhood Nightmare
During Britain’s annual Bonfire Night, Richmond hosted an elaborate fireworks show in the backyard of his estate.
The event featured professional technicians, loud music, and large-scale fireworks more typical of public celebrations.
However, the display came without proper warning to the surrounding community.
The area around his home consists largely of farms, stables, and households with pets.
When the fireworks began, nearby residents were caught completely off guard.
Panic Among Pets and Farm Animals
The sudden explosions terrified animals throughout the village.
Dogs were reported shaking violently, barking nonstop, and vomiting from stress.
Some pets ran uncontrollably inside their homes, unable to calm down.
The most tragic outcome occurred at a nearby farm.
Startled by the noise, a horse panicked and bolted at full speed.
It collided with a fence and suffered fatal injuries.
Despite a veterinarian’s best efforts, the horse had to be put down.
Hypocrisy Allegations Fuel Public Anger
The incident quickly spread online, fueled by what many saw as deep irony.
Richmond’s family business, Pets Corner, markets itself as one of Britain’s most animal-friendly pet retailers.
Only days earlier, the company had shared advice on social media about keeping pets calm during Bonfire Night.
Meanwhile, its owner had staged an unannounced fireworks display at his own home.
For many observers, the contradiction was impossible to ignore.
Apologies That Failed to Convince
As criticism mounted, Richmond sent an apology letter to local residents.
He stated that his intention was to host a “family-friendly celebration.”
He claimed he had notified a few nearby neighbors and did not expect others to be affected.
He also expressed sadness over the horse’s death and promised never to host fireworks again.
His company later issued a separate statement, stressing that the event was private and unrelated to its business operations.
The response did little to calm public anger.
Online Backlash and Calls for Accountability
Villagers and social media users accused Richmond of selfishness and irresponsibility.
Many argued that anyone living near farms should understand how dangerous fireworks can be for animals.
Some questioned whether his public image as an animal lover was genuine.
Others openly called for a boycott of his stores.
Several commenters suggested the fireworks were less about tradition and more about personal ego.
Speculation spread that the event was meant to celebrate his divorce or display his wealth.
A Community Left With Lingering Doubts
For local residents, the issue goes far beyond a single celebration.
They feel their safety, their animals, and their community were treated as an afterthought.
The incident has reignited debate in Britain over fireworks, animal welfare, and the responsibilities that come with wealth.
When actions contradict values so clearly, trust is hard to rebuild.
