Another Explosion in Brisbane

The following letter from the Brisbane Police Department is being mailed today to each household as an insert in the water bill.

After several months without an incident, we have had 3 recent occasions where an M80 or similar type explosive was set off. 

On 10/7/11 at approx. 9:30 pm, a device was set off near the entrance to Quarry Road.  As with past incidents, no property damage occurred, and in this case, was over 100 feet from any residential buildings.

On 12/1/11 at approx. 9:41 pm, a firework was set off in the 300 block of Klamath.  It appears that the device unintentionally landed under the stairs of a residence causing fire damage to the stairs and deck.

On 12/26/11 at approx. 8:55 pm, a device was set off in the storm drain in the 200 block of Monterey Street.  In this incident, the silhouette of a male wearing a black hooded sweatshirt was seen running from the scene.

There does not appear to be any particular target or reason for these events, other than to gratify the person or people involved.  Causing damage to property does not appear to be a factor or motive in these incidents.

According to Wikipedia, “M80s are a class of large firecrackers, sometimes called salutes. The Simulator, Artillery, M80, was originally made in the early 20th century by the U.S. Military to simulate explosives or artillery fire; Later, M-80s were manufactured as fireworks.” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M-80_(explosive)   Regardless of their original intent, these devices are dangerous and we consider their use or possession a serious offense.

Earlier in the year we received several complaints of similar explosions in the city.  Most of these incidents were located near the area of Visitation and Mariposa Streets.  Although no arrests were made in these cases, aggressive patrol and contact with several people of interest resulted in no further incidents. 

These devices are very small despite there loud noise.  They can be easily concealed in a pocket or palm of the hand, and when ignited, do not go off for up to 30 seconds.  This gives ample time for the person involved to walk away without notice.  That’s why we need your help in our continued efforts to bring these incidents to an end.  Should you be anywhere near the area when one of these events occurs, please take note of the people in the area and pass that information on to any police officer.  Our officers take pride in knowing the members of our community and citizens that frequent our city.  Any description you may be able to provide could lead to the identification of the person or people involved. 

As always, if you have information for us and wish to remain anonymous, you can contact us via the Web: http://www.ci.brisbane.ca.us/brisbane-contact-form