Fire chief may lose foot after grenade accident

05:35 PM CDT on Monday, August 30, 2004

By Carolyn Mungo / 11 News

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HUFFMAN – A home in rural Magnolia is now under watch by federal agents and the Montgomery County Fire Marshall. Both agencies are launching an investigation after a 911 call Friday night.

911 Operator: "What’s going on there?

Caller: “A firework blew up and caused some major trauma to the foot of a 32-year-old male."

911 Operator: “Are you there with him right now?”

Caller: “Yes.”

911 Operator: “Is he conscious?

Caller: “Yes.”

911 Operator: “Is he breathing?"

Caller: “Yes."

11 News has learned that several Cy-Creek EMS workers were reportedly partying at the home Friday night when a grenade went off near the foot of a Huffman Assistant Fire Chief.

Here's the second call to 911:

911 Operator: "Okay what’s going on there?”

Caller: “This traumatic injury to the foot from an explosive firework. I’m a paramedic supervisor with Cypress Creek. The last lady I talked to, I told we're going to need a helicopter to Hermann."

Caller: "Half his foot's gone."

911 Operator: “Half his foot's gone?

Caller: “Yeh.”

911 Operator: “Okay."

The home is owned by a paramedic with the Cy-Creek EMS.

Sources tell 11 News the explosion came from a flash-bang grenade, a device used by federal and local SWAT teams. It’s not licensed for use by medical personnel.

11 News has confirmed the homeowner used to work for ATF.

In a statement the Cy Creek EMS President said: “We are aware of an incident that took place over the weekend and unfortunately one individual was seriously injured. We understand some of our personnel were present at the time of the accident and we are looking into the matter."

11 News has learned the victim may have to have his foot amputated. Meanwhile, because of the nature of the explosive device, Montgomery County is looking into possible criminal charges.