A man attending a baby shower in Gaines Township, Michigan, was killed after a small cannon exploded in a home’s backyard, expelling metal shards. According to a CNN news report, 26-year-old Evan Thomas Silva died after shrapnel from the gender reveal cannon struck him. Police said when the cannon was fired, it blew up spraying metal shrapnel across the yard that struck Silva, three vehicles and the home’s garage.
Silva was standing about 10 to 15 feet away from the cannon and was the only person hit by the metal shards. He was rushed to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Police said while the cannon contained no projectile, they suspect gunpowder had been loaded into the device causing the cannon to fracture.
We offer our deepest condolences to Silva’s family for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Gender Reveal Tragedy
Silva was reportedly a friend of the family who hosted the event. Police said the cannon was similar to a signal cannon that released a flash, a loud boom and smoke when fired. The homeowner had purchased the cannon at an auction and had fired it many times before, police said. Prosecutors are expected to review the case when the police investigation concludes.
Silva’s death is sadly similar to other accidents that have occurred at gender reveal parties where soon-to-be parents announce the gender of their unborn child with pyrotechnic devices or elaborate displays that have caused all kinds of disasters from wildfires here in Southern California to plane crashes or even deaths.
A Disaster Waiting to Happen
Our personal injury attorneys are absolutely opposed to these extreme gender reveal parties that put properties and lives at risk. Please remember that if your gender reveal stunts injure or kill someone, you could face not just criminal charges or penalties, but also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses. Injured victims may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
If you have lost a loved one, you may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love, care and companionship. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to help you better understand your legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/08/us/man-killed-cannon-baby-shower-trnd/index.html
