Homemade explosive devices found in refrigerators in Worcester, Massachusetts

WORCESTER – Worcester, Massachusetts city officials are warning the public to be vigilant after three homemade explosive devices were recently found in the city, two of which were in refrigerated storage units.

Worcester explosion

The Worcester District Attorney’s Office said Tuesday that the investigation began June 19 after a small explosion on Madison Street.

After the explosion, investigators found fireworks, a can of butane gas and projectile materials. It was not immediately known if anyone was injured when the device exploded.

Non-explosive charges in refrigerators

The district attorney’s office said two similar devices were found in an undetonated state last month. Both were constructed of similar materials and placed in refrigerators, police said.

Investigators did not disclose details about where the undetonated charges were found.

Warning issued to the public

Worcester residents are asked to be vigilant about unattended items, especially refrigerators. Anyone who comes across a suspicious item is asked not to tamper with it and to immediately call 911.

“Massachusetts residents have been seriously injured while attempting to create homemade explosive devices,” Fire Marshal Jon Davine said in a statement. “These devices are illegal and potentially deadly.”

The Worcester District Attorney’s Office did not release any images of the devices.

The Massachusetts State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit, the Worcester Police Department, the Worcester Fire Department and the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office are investigating the devices.

Worcester is the second largest city in New England, after Boston.

More details are not available at this time.