The consequences could have been dramatic for three teenagers from Calvados who set fire to an explosive munition. They were transported, in a state of shock, to Caen University Hospital this Sunday. “It could be an American anti-tank rifle grenade from the Second World War,” said the prefecture’s press service, confirming information from Ouest-France and France Bleu Normandie.
“The young people lit a paper on the ammunition in a wood near Avenay and it exploded,” added this source. This explosion was heard in surrounding villages and could have had “dramatic consequences” if the charge had been intact.
“It’s a big stroke of luck,” said the prefecture, taking into account the teenagers’ injuries. “They had found the ammunition in a river” and this long stay of 80 years in the water undoubtedly “deteriorated the explosive charge”, specified this source.
The prefecture took the opportunity to reiterate the recommendations in the event of the discovery of munitions from the Second World War. They must be reported immediately to the police or gendarmerie, do not approach them and if possible, take images, mark the location and cover it with sand or earth if it is on the ground.