SPOKANE, Wash. – Two students from Gonzaga University faced a judge this week in connection with an explosion that injured two individuals earlier this month. The incident took place on November 8 beneath the Wall Street viaduct, where a firework reportedly landed in the lap of a 15-year-old girl. A homeless man, identified as Mr. Best, attempted to save her and suffered serious injuries when the firework detonated in his hand.
Prosecutors described the event as alarming, noting that the explosive device caused significant physical harm. “This dangerous situation unfolded when a minor was directly affected,” a spokesperson explained. The explosive reportedly inflicted graphic injuries on Mr. Best, leading to his emergency transport to Harborview Medical Center.
The defendants, Theodore Weymiller and Samuel Hopper, both 21, appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday. Surveillance footage reportedly captured their vehicle slowing down just before the device was thrown from the car. The judge expressed concern over the nature of the injuries sustained by Mr. Best and set bail at $25,000 for each defendant.
“This kind of recklessness is not something the community can overlook,” the judge remarked, alluding to the severe consequences of the incident. In response, the defense attorneys emphasized their clients’ clean criminal records and their voluntary decision to come forward after realizing the harm caused. “They did not wait for law enforcement; they took responsibility,” one defense attorney said.
In a statement addressing the incident, Gonzaga University expressed its sorrow over the involvement of its students in a violent act. The university conveyed its sympathy for those affected and reaffirmed its commitment to cooperating with ongoing investigations.
Both Weymiller and Hopper have since been released on bond and are scheduled to appear for arraignment on November 25. As the community navigates the aftermath of this disturbing event, discussions about safety and accountability are likely to persist in Spokane.