Exploding cannon at baby shower kills Michigan man

GAINES TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WXYZ) -- A 26-year-old man from Hartland was killed Saturday when a cannon exploded during a baby shower near Flint.

A "small cannon-type device" was fired in the back yard of a home by the home's owner around 7:30 p.m., police said. The cannon, which was similar to a Signal Cannon, blew up, causing metal and shrapnel to hit three parked vehicles and the victim.

The victim was taken to Hurley Medical Center in Flint where he later died from his injuries.

Investigators say that type of cannon is commonly used as a novelty item. The homeowner purchased it at an auction and had fired it several times before Saturday's incident.

Police say the cannon is designed to create a large flash, loud noise and smoke. Although the cannon did not have any projectiles inside, it's suspected that the gun powder that was loaded into the device caused the cannon to fracture, which resulted in shrapnel being spread around the area.

About four or five other guests were outside during the explosion. The victim was reportedly standing just 10 to 15 feet away from the cannon when it exploded.

The Detroit Free Press reports Michigan State Police, MSP Bomb Squad, Medstar Ambulance and the Gaines Township Fire Department responded to the scene, and the incident was under investigation by state police.