The cannon sent shrapnel across the property, police said.
A man was killed on Saturday night after the shrapnel from an exploding cannon used in a Michigan baby shower hit him, police said.
A homeowner in Genesee County fired a small cannon-like device in the yard at around 7:30 pm to commemorate the baby’s arrival, according to Michigan State Police.
“The owner of the house bought the cannon at an auction before the event and fired the cannon several times before. The cannon is designed to create a big flash, a loud noise and create smoke,” said state police in a statement.
The gun exploded and hit Evan Thomas Silva, 26, of Hartland, who was 3 to 5 meters away, police said. Three parked vehicles and the garage where the baby shower would be held were also affected.
“The cannon did not contain any projectiles, but it is suspected that the powder loaded in the device caused the cannon to fracture,” police said.
The victim was rushed to the Hurley Medical Center, where he later died of his injuries, according to police. It is currently unknown how Silva relates to the owner.
Michigan State Police said the bomb squad and Gaines Township Fire Department responded to the incident. Authorities are investigating and the case will be sent to the Genesee County District Attorney for review, according to the police.