CCPD: Man will not face charges in Cape Coral condo explosion

CAPE CORAL, Fla.- A man who was making homemade fireworks and caused an explosion in his north Cape Coral condominium will not face criminal charges.

Justin McHenry, 31, sustained life-threatening injuries when homemade fireworks he was attempting to make in his kitchen exploded.

The Cape Coral Police Department first began investigating after receiving calls of the explosion at the Isles of Porto Vista back in May.

Authorities found McHenry sitting outside on the ground. Police say he had severe injuries and was missing both arms just below the elbow.  The apartment had broken windows, doors blown off, and smoke was coming from the apartment.

McHenry was transported to a local hospital as a trauma alert.

On May 21, detectives submitted an application for an arrest warrant to the State Attorney’s Office for a first degree felony charge of making, possessing, or discharging a destructive device or attempting to do so.

Last week, CCPD was sent notice that the State Attorney’s Office denied the application for the arrest of McHenry. The police department says they have now closed this case, and will not pursue any additional criminal charges.

“We understand and respect the state’s decision not to pursue charges in this case,” said Det. Sergeant Dana Coston. “No one should ever attempt to make, modify, or disassemble their own fireworks. Fireworks are designed to burn at incredibly hot temperatures and some are designed to explode.”

31-year old Justin McHenry was making home made fireworks and will not face criminal charges.
Cape Coral Police say McHenry was using a coffee grinder mixing explosive materials when it detonated. They say the grinder turned in to a grenade, shooting shrapnel everywhere.
The bomb squad discovered items they believed were consistent with items that were used to build IED’s.

The blast blew off McHenry’s arms from the elbow down leaving bones exposed.
He had severe injuries to his abdomen and upper legs.
According to brand new police reports McHenry’s computer history showed searches of how to build super powerful flash powder and learn how to make fireworks.