Independence Police investigating chemical bomb explosion

Police in Independence, Kansas, continue their investigation after an apparent chemical bomb exploded after being thrown from a car. Read their full report below:

On Monday, shortly before 12:30 pm, Independence Police Department (IPD) officers were dispatched to a report of a chemical bomb that exploded on the 1000 block of West Oak. No injuries were reported.

Witnesses recognized the vehicle and provided a good description. They also identified the passenger and driver, telling police as the vehicle drove past occupants threw a bottle out and the bottle exploded. Police recovered the contents for evidence and the scene was decontaminated by Independence Fire-EMS.

Police are not identifying the suspects at this time, but they are seeking the suspects for questioning.

These bombs are made by mixing typical household chemicals. They are unpredictable and may not explode immediately, creating a danger to unwary bystanders. “Building, possessing, or transporting these bottle bombs is a serious crime and anyone near a bottle bomb could be injured,” Chief Harrison said.

Victims of similar incidents around the country have suffered amputations and facial injury as well as severe chemical burns. Police warn citizens to stay away from suspected bottle bombs and to call police immediately.

The investigation is ongoing, and we ask anyone with information to contact IPD at 620-332-1700.

IPD is also asking residents in the area to share any surveillance camera video they think may help with the case.