Homemade explosives found in coolers in Worcester; public told to stay vigilant

Authorities in Worcester are asking members of the public to be on the lookout for potential homemade explosive devices and other suspicious items. These devices could be hidden in coolers, they said.

The warning comes after police responded to one small explosion and found other undetonated devices. 

The explosion occurred on June 19 near 185 Madison St. in Worcester, according to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early’s office. At that scene, investigators found fireworks, a butane gas can, and “projectile materials.”

The two undetonated devices were found around Worcester last month, officials said. They did not specify where. These devices were made with similar materials to the ones found at the scene of the explosion, and they were placed inside coolers. 

An investigation is ongoing, and residents should be wary of unattended items, particularly coolers. They should not be tampered with, and 911 should be called immediately if any suspicious items are found. 

“Massachusetts residents have caused themselves grievous injuries while attempting to create homemade explosive devices,” State Fire Marshal Jon Davine said in a statement. “These devices are illegal and potentially fatal.”