High school students found in possession of explosive materials
The students said they were not intending to cause harm.
Nov. 3, 2008
Two Hickman High School students were found in possession of explosive materials after a teacher became suspicious of one student drilling a hole into a lead pipe during shop class Friday morning.
The student was searched and was found with CO2 cartridges, a fuse line, three lead pipe caps and black powder, a Columbia Police Department news release stated. It was enough material to make three small explosive devices. The powder cannot be labeled as gunpowder until the lab gives confirmation, CPD Sgt. Eric White said.
After further investigation, a second student was identified as a suspect, having bought some of the materials and giving them to the first student. The investigation found that the students weren't intending to harm anyone or use the devices at school, but rather were to be used for entertainment as fireworks at a party later that night.
"I don't think the students realized the dangerous situation they were involved in," said Lynn Barnett, assistant superintendent for student support services.
Barnett said the students would receive at least an extended suspension, but due to the ongoing investigation, specific repercussions had not been determined.
Both were arrested for a class C felony of possession of explosive devices, and Hickman High School will handle any disciplinary issues. Both suspects are juveniles and have not been named by the CPD.
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