Medical call in Eldorado Springs involving a explosive device

On May 1, 2017, officers responded to 119 West Field Street concerning a report of a medical emergency resulting from the detonation of an improvised explosive device. Officers located a 15 year old male with an amputation injury to his left hand and injuries to his left upper leg. 

Officers began basic first aid while awaiting a delayed ambulance response. The victim was transported to Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, for treatment. The investigation revealed that a CO2 cartridge filled with gun powder detonated in the victim's left hand due to a static electrical discharge, igniting the powder within the cartridge.

It is imperative for parents and children to understand the importance of preventing these types of accidents. Never experiment with homemade explosive or improvised explosive devices. Personnel who have received advance training in Explosive Ordinance Deposal are injured or kill in their line of work even after receiving advance training. These explosive devices are illegal to manufacture, possess, and detonate.

Respectfully,
Jarrod Schiereck, Chief of Police