Press Release - April 28, 2003 - Ocean Pines Powder Incident

Date:
April 28, 2003
11:55 A.M.

Contact:
Jeff McMahon, Fire Marshal
Phone: (410) 632-5666 Ext.4; Email: jmcmahon@co.worcester.md.us

Ocean Pines Powder Incident Investigated

The Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office, along with members of the Worcester County Special Hazards Response Team (SHRT) investigated a "Powder Incident" at an Ocean Pines cluster mailbox location on Capetown Road. Although the SHRT used biological detection equipment in the investigation, the powder was believed to be fire extinguisher agent (powder) from the onset of the incident. Following procedures, the SHRT used personal protection equipment including tyvek suits and respirators to investigation, collect, test and clean up the powder.

With the assistance of the Ocean Pines Police Department, the Fire Marshal's Office arrested two teenage juveniles, ages 12 & 13. They have been charged with theft, malicious destruction and reckless endangerment in connection with this incident. In addition to those criminal charges, the juveniles will also be held accountable for the personal protective equipment used by the SHRT. The total amount of the personal protective equipment restitution is estimated at more than $500.00. The juveniles were released to the custody of their parents. The fire extinguisher was stolen from a nearby construction site.

# # # #