Winter Explosion: 26-Year-Old Michigan Man Evan Thomas Silva Dies After Explosion At Baby Shower...What?

26-year-old Michigan man dies after explosion at baby shower  

GAINES TWP., Mich. (WXYZ) — A 26-year-old man from Hartland was killed Saturday when a cannon exploded during a baby shower near Flint. The incident happened around 7:30 p.m. in Gaines Township, which is southwest of Flint. A "small cannon-type device" was fired in the back yard of a home by the home's owner, 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 has been identified as Evan Thomas Silva. He 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. Source