Shawano, Wisconsin (AP) – A teenager in Wisconsin was found guilty on Monday for causing an explosion that injured more than a dozen people at a bonfire in the Pulaski area. 18-year-old Samuel Armstrong pleaded no contest to 13 counts of injury by negligent use of an explosive for the incident that occurred on October 14, 2022.
According to District Attorney Greg Parker, the state is recommending a sentence of five years probation and six months in jail. However, the defense will have the opportunity to argue for a different sentence at the sentencing scheduled for April 11.
The criminal complaint stated that Armstrong had been asking someone to throw a barrel of gasoline and diesel onto the bonfire. After receiving the go-ahead, he tossed the barrel into the fire, causing a sudden explosion that burned multiple partygoers.
The Shawano County Sheriff’s Department reported that at least 17 teenagers suffered burn injuries out of approximately 60 people at the bonfire. Additionally, several of the victims and their families have filed civil lawsuits seeking monetary damages for their injuries.
Armstrong’s alcohol consumption and the accounts of others at the party have also been detailed in the complaint, shedding light on the events leading up to the explosion. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of mixing alcohol and reckless behavior.
The consequences of Armstrong’s actions have left a lasting impact on the victims and their families, who are seeking justice through both the criminal and civil court systems. The sentencing on April 11 will determine the extent of Armstrong’s punishment, but the impact of the explosion on the victims will endure for much longer.