Children Hurt By Cannon Blast During Civil War Reenactment

Three Utah children were hurt by a cannon blast during a Civil War reenactment. Witnesses said all three children were participants in the reenactment. Authorities confirmed two boys and one girl were injured during the Orem Summerfest Grand Parade.

Although cannon demonstrations are commonly used during civil war reenactments, they are generally safe. During demonstrations, those in charge of the cannons are tasked with taking precautions to ensure participants and audience members are not harmed.

As outlined by Grand Encampment, it is important that 50-foot “danger zone” be established around the weapon. The guide also suggests storing all ammunition at least 25 feet behind the cannon.

It is unclear exactly how the children were hurt by the cannon as the incident is still under investigation. However, witnesses said the initial blast ignited an ammunition pouch, which was stored near the cannon.

As reported by KSL News, Wayne Latu witnessed the frightening incident:

“It fired normally the first time… And then there was a second explosion, and a fireball that you saw that came out of the smoke… There were kids lying on the ground… One girl was hopping on one foot, and there was overall shock.”

Brittany Tait also witnessed the accident. She said “one of the girls’ clothes were on fire.” However, witnesses eventually managed to douse the flames.

When it was clear that the children were injured, the parade was halted. A physician assistant, who wishes to remain anonymous, treated the children at the scene. The unidentified man said at least one of the children suffered burns to the face. However, the children’s injuries were not life threatening.

Authorities said the children were transported to a local hospital for further treatment. All three are currently listed in stable condition.

CNN reports that a spokesperson with the Orem Department of Public Safety later confirmed the children were hurt during a cannon demonstration. However, it is unclear whether the reenactment group will be charged with any state or local safety violations.

Witnesses said the parade continued after the children left the scene. Although the incident was incredibly frightening, the participants and spectators were thankful that nobody was fatally harmed.

Civil War reenactments and encampments are quite popular throughout the nation. Although cannon demonstrations are often included in the celebrations, participants and viewers are rarely harmed.

It is unknown whether anyone will be held liable for the children being hurt by the cannon blast. Neither criminal nor civil charges have been discussed.

[Image via KSL.com]