Blitar Police Investigate Balloon Explosion That Claims One Life

Blitar (ANTARA) - Blitar Police Station’s Head of Public Relations Section, Aiptu Muheni, said on Wednesday that the incident occurred on Wednesday morning when residents were performing Idul Adha prayers in Tambakan Village, Gandusari Subdistrict, Blitar Regency. ‘While residents were performing Idul Adha prayers, the victim and six other children were flying unmanned balloons at the crime scene and attaching firecrackers to them,’ he said. The three victims, identified as I (23), ADR (11), and D (12), all residents of Tambakan Village in Gandusari Subdistrict, were involved. When victim I was holding a firecracker, it suddenly exploded, causing injuries. Residents who heard the loud explosion immediately rushed to the crime scene and found the victims. ‘A joint team from the Blitar Police Station’s SPKT, Inafis, and Crime Investigation Unit arrived at the scene to process it. The victims were then evacuated to Ngudi Waluyo Wlingi Regional Hospital for treatment,’ he said. Victim I suffered a severed right arm up to the elbow, severe burns to the face and abdomen. Found unconscious and in critical condition, he later died after receiving hospital treatment. The second victim, ADR, had abrasions on the left hand finger and chin, while D sustained abrasions on the left hand finger and face. Both victims were conscious but remain under medical care. ‘Victim I was declared dead after hospital treatment, while the other two are still receiving medical care,’ he added. He added that police are currently conducting investigations, gathering witness statements, and deepening the inquiry into the incident. Police have also urged the public not to play with firecrackers, as they are dangerous and can endanger both oneself and others.