Bridgeville – The Delaware State Police are investigating an explosion of an air cannon at Punkin Chunkin.
Troopers said that preliminary information reveals the incident occurred around 2:45 p.m. this afternoon, Sunday November 6, 2016, when an air cannon called “Pumpkin Reaper” was preparing to launch. For undetermined reasons, the trap door of the cannon, where the pumpkins are loaded, separated upon the launch of the pumpkin. The door and other parts were blown away from the cannon and into the air before coming down and striking a 39-year-old female in the head and face area.
The female, whose name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin, was treated immediately on scene by Sussex County Paramedics and transported by EMS to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital. She was stabilized and then flown to Christiana Medical Center by LifeNet Helicopter where she is currently listed in critical condition.
A 56-year-old male was also injured in the incident and was transported by EMS to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital where he is currently being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Detectives with the Delaware State Police are being assisted by Delaware Department of Natural Resources in this investigation.
Image Credits: File