By Iron County Today Staff, For Iron County Today
Two teenagers were injured Wednesday evening after explosive target material detonated unexpectedly while a group of four teens were reportedly experimenting with it west of Cedar City.
According to the Iron County Sheriff’s Office, emergency crews responded shortly before 6 p.m. on June 24 to the Desert Mound area after receiving reports of a traumatic injury.
Investigators said four teenagers were handling explosive target material when it detonated prematurely. Two teens were injured in the blast. One was treated at the scene for minor injuries, while the other sustained serious injuries and was flown by Life Flight to a regional hospital. The identities of those involved have not been released.
The other two teenagers were not injured.
The cause of the premature explosion remains under investigation.
Explosive target products are commonly used by recreational shooters and are designed to detonate only after being struck by a high-velocity rifle round when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Officials reminded the public that these materials can be dangerous if mishandled or used in ways they were not intended.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Iron County Sheriff’s Office.