SHAWANO, Wis. – A teenager in Shawano County has been sentenced to one year in jail for causing a bonfire explosion in Maple Grove that injured 17 people. Eighteen-year-old Samuel Armstrong received the sentence, which could be reduced to six months with good behavior, along with a five-year probation period.
Armstrong pleaded no contest to 13 felony charges of negligent use of a weapon or explosive in February. The explosion occurred in October 2022 after he poured a gas-diesel mixture onto a bonfire at a homecoming party, injuring 17 teenagers. Shawano County Judge Katherine Sloma emphasized Armstrong’s lack of good judgment in the incident, stating that it was ultimately his decision to add the mixture to the fire.
Despite the physical and emotional wounds still healing for many victims and their families, forgiveness was a common sentiment in the courtroom. Greg Van Asten, the father of one of the victims, expressed his forgiveness towards Armstrong, encouraging him to do good things in his life.
Julie Van Asten, Greg’s wife, also found it in her heart to forgive Armstrong after reading the police report and recognizing his actions in trying to assist a victim.
Armstrong has until May 30 to turn himself into jail, allowing him to walk at graduation as agreed upon by the judge, district attorney, and defense. The plea offer from the state includes a recommendation for a withheld sentence of five years’ probation with conditions such as one-year county jail time, with six months stayed for work release purposes in case of violations or sanctions.
During the court proceedings, Armstrong’s next steps were discussed, including the possibility of working in construction to save money for restitution. Shawano County District Attorney Gregory Parker mentioned the option for Armstrong to transfer to Brown County Jail, where he could potentially be released with an electronic monitoring bracelet to join highway construction crews.