Independence Police Officers respond to reports of an explosion.

Earlier this week, IPD officers were dispatched to a report of a chemical bomb that exploded in the 1000 block of West Oak. No injuries were reported. A vehicle had driven by and tossed a bottle out and the bottle exploded. Witnesses identified the driver and passenger. Officers recovered the contents for evidence and the scene was decontaminated by Independence Fire-EMS. Police are not identifying the suspects at this time.

These bombs are made by mixing typical household chemicals. They are unpredictable and may not explode immediately. Victims of similar incidents around the country have suffered amputations and facial injuries as well as severe chemical burns. Police warn citizens to stay away from suspected bottle bombs and to call police immediately. The investigation is ongoing.