PARK TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A Michigan man has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in connection to a deadly fireworks explosion that resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to nine other people.
Anthony Jon Meyer, 37, could face up to 15 years in prison for the incident, which occurred during a Fourth of July celebration on July 3. Meyer was charged with involuntary manslaughter after he brought and ignited a homemade “Salute Cannon” that was intended to create a loud boom. However, the device exploded, sending metal shrapnel flying into the crowd and resulting in the death of 41-year-old Jana Daniels, as well as injuries to nine others.
Originally, Meyer was charged with a statutory short form of manslaughter, but based on the facts of the case, prosecutors decided to specify the charge as involuntary manslaughter. According to Ottawa County Prosecutor Lee Fisher, Meyer now faces a maximum of 15 years in prison if convicted.
The guilty plea comes as a tragic end to a Fourth of July celebration that turned deadly due to the actions of a single individual. The consequences of Meyer’s actions have resulted in a loss of life and numerous injuries, leaving a lasting impact on the victims’ families and the community as a whole.
In conclusion, Anthony Jon Meyer has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in connection to a deadly fireworks explosion that occurred during a Fourth of July celebration, resulting in the death of one woman and injuries to nine other people. He now faces a maximum of 15 years in prison if convicted.