Sky Lantern Explosion in Blitar Kills One, Injures Two Children

Blitar District Police, East Java, is handling an incident where a firecracker-laden sky lantern exploded in Tambakan Village, Gandusari Subdistrict, Blitar Regency, killing one person and injuring two others.

Aiptu Muheni, Head of the Public Relations Section at Blitar District Police, stated that the incident occurred during Wednesday morning Eid al-Adha prayers when the victim and six other children were flying the sky lanterns and attaching firecrackers.

Three victims, identified as I (23), ADR (11), and D (12), all residents of Tambakan Village, were present. When victim I was handling a firecracker, it detonated, causing injuries.

Residents who heard the explosion rushed to the scene and reported it to the police, who responded, evacuated the injured, and processed the crime scene. A joint team from the patrol unit, forensic unit, and Criminal Investigation Unit of Blitar District Police attended the site to conduct investigations.

Victim I suffered a severed right arm up to the elbow and severe burns to the face and abdomen. Found unconscious and in critical condition, he later died in hospital. The second victim, ADR, sustained abrasions on his left fingers and chin, while D had abrasions on his left fingers and face. Both are conscious and receiving medical treatment.

Police are currently investigating the incident, collecting witness statements, and conducting further inquiries.