Spokane, Wash. – Two students from Gonzaga University have been charged following a firework explosion in downtown Spokane that resulted in injuries to two individuals early this month. The incident took place on November 8 beneath the Wall Street viaduct.
According to prosecutors, a firework landed in the lap of a 15-year-old girl, prompting a homeless man, identified as Mr. Best, to act heroically in an attempt to help her. Sadly, he sustained serious injuries when the explosive detonated while he was trying to throw it to safety.
“This explosive device landed in the lap of a minor, and Mr. Best bravely attempted to intervene,” a spokesperson explained. “Unfortunately, it exploded while in his grasp, causing devastating injuries.”
The defendants, Theodore Weymiller and Samuel Hopper, both 21 years old, appeared in court on Wednesday for their initial hearing. Surveillance footage from the area showed their vehicle slow down just before the firework was thrown.
During the court proceedings, the judge referred to the severity of the injuries described in the probable cause affidavit, noting the gravity of the situation. “It sounds like Mr. Best lost his hand and had to be transported to Harborview. Such actions are not easily taken lightly by the community,” the judge said.
Defense attorneys for Weymiller and Hopper emphasized that their clients have no previous criminal records and had come forward voluntarily after learning about the consequences of their actions. “Law enforcement did not solve this case; Mr. Weymiller and his co-defendant stepped forward upon realizing the harm they had caused,” the defense stated.
In response to the incident, Gonzaga University expressed deep concern and sadness over the involvement of their students in what they described as a violent incident. The university extended thoughts and prayers to the victims and affirmed their commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement as investigations continue.
Both Weymiller and Hopper have been released on a $25,000 bond and are set to be arraigned on November 25. The community remains shaken by the repercussions of the incident, grappling with the shocking turn of events that led to such serious injuries.