HOPKINTON, Rhode Island – Residents in Hopkinton, Rhode Island, were startled by a series of loud explosions that occurred on Sunday evening, prompting a massive response from emergency services. The incident, caused by a 20-year-old man using an at-home shooting range with explosive targets, led to over a hundred emergency calls from concerned residents in the town and surrounding communities.
Daniel Bill, the man responsible for the explosions, was charged by Hopkinton police for detonating explosive devices. Police Chief Mark Carrier emphasized the level of disturbance caused by the explosions, which were heard in neighboring towns like Westerly, Charlestown, and Richmond. The excessive volume of calls tied up emergency phone lines throughout the night, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Authorities, including Hopkinton Police, Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office, Rhode Island State Bomb Squad, and Ashaway Fire Department, responded to the reports just before 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. The source of the explosions was traced back to Bill’s residence on Clarks Falls Road, though investigations concluded that there was no threat to public safety.
Bill claimed the explosions were caused by Tannerite, explosive targets commonly used for firearms practice and sold legally in stores like Cabela’s. While he defended his actions as legal and done in a safe manner, authorities expressed concerns over the disruptive nature of the blasts. Police noted that previous incidents involving Tannerite did not result in such widespread disturbance, with Carrier highlighting the potential consequences of tying up emergency lines during critical situations.
As the investigation continues, police have not ruled out the possibility of more arrests related to the incident. Residents are urged to come forward with any information that could aid in the ongoing inquiry. The authorities are working to prevent similar disturbances in the future to ensure prompt and effective emergency response in the community.