Police Warn Public After Homemade Explosive Devices Found in Worcester – Boston News, Weather, Sports

WORCESTER, MASS. (WHDH) – Authorities on Tuesday urged the public to remain vigilant after a series of homemade explosive devices were found in Worcester.

The Worcester County District Attorney’s Office said in a statement that investigators responded to a location at 185 Madison Street on June 19 after a small explosion occurred in the area. Upon arrival, the District Attorney’s Office said authorities found fireworks, a can of butane gas and “projectile material.”

In addition to the device that exploded, the DA’s office said investigators found two non-detonating devices made of similar materials in Worcester last month. Officials said both devices were placed in coolers but did not say where in the city they were found.

“Massachusetts residents have been seriously injured attempting to create homemade explosive devices,” State Fire Marshal Jon Davine said in an announcement from the DA’s office. “These devices are illegal and potentially deadly.”

“It is important to note that there are no threats at this time and these devices were non-sophisticated in nature,” the Worcester Police Department said in a separate statement. “We urge citizens to remain vigilant in light of these incidents as they enjoy this holiday week.”

While officials continue to investigate, the Worcester District Attorney’s Office said residents should notify authorities if they see unattended coolers or other suspicious items.

The district attorney’s office said anyone who sees such an item should not touch it but call 911 immediately.

Samantha Carrabis told 7NEWS she lives near the June 19 explosion site on Madison Street. She said she often hears the sound of people setting off fireworks.

“There are kids everywhere with fireworks at this point,” she said. “It’s starting to get disorganized.”

“I think right now they’re just a nuisance because they’re keeping people awake at night,” Carrabis said.

Another person from the area shared his point of view.

“If they’re going to do it, why do they do it in a place where it could cause more explosions?” he said. “Especially with fireworks, it could get out of control.”

“I’m definitely going to keep an eye on it now and definitely be more vigilant now,” Carrabis said after the warning from the district attorney’s office Tuesday.

This is developing story; stay tuned to 7NEWS on air and online for the latest news.