Wilmington Police have arrested a 15-year-old who ignited a firework that resulted in injury to two police officers and damage to a patrol vehicle.
On July 5 at approximately 8 p.m., two police officers were in the 900 block of Pine Street conducting a directed patrol. One of the officers, who was seated in a marked patrol vehicle, observed a 15-year-old holding and igniting a firework. The officer exited the vehicle to approach the juvenile, at which time the firework exploded less than two feet away from the officer and the vehicle, officials said.
The explosion caused minor injury to both officers, and they were treated and released from the hospital. The explosion also resulted in a burn mark on their patrol vehicle.
Police were able to quickly apprehend the suspect without incident, and he has been charged with the following offenses:
Assault (Second Degree) – Two Counts
Criminal Mischief
Sale or Possession of Fireworks
The 15-year-old, who was also wanted on two outstanding capiases, was arraigned in New Castle County Family Court and committed to the New Castle County Detention Center on $20,200 secured bail.