The device detonated inside a classroom, injuring the 16-year-old and four classmates sitting nearby. School administrators called 911, the school was evacuated immediately and students were transferred to the bus garage when emergency services arrived, police said.
All schools in Newaygo County were closed in accordance with the county’s emergency operations plan until authorities determined that there were no more threats to students.
Based on the initial investigation, it appears that the student had no bad intentions and did not intend to detonate the device, Michigan State Police spokeswoman Michelle Robinson told CNN.
The 16-year-old was taken to the hospital for moderate to severe injuries, while the other four students were taken to the hospital by his parents for minor injuries. The class teacher also went to the hospital, as the explosion involved smoke and there was concern about the chemicals potentially used in the device, Robinson said.
“The investigation continues on the type of material involved in the explosion and the circumstances that contributed,” said the state police, adding that the FBI and the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on site to help identify the materials. explosives involved.
CNN tried to contact Newaygo Public Schools for comment.
Correction: An earlier version of this story mistakenly identified which police department Michelle Robinson represents as a spokesperson. Robinson works for the Michigan State Police.