EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Evansville police are investigating an early morning incident on Sunday where fireworks were launched at an elderly woman’s home on North Fares Avenue. Authorities responded to multiple 911 calls reporting criminal mischief and a potential explosion at the residence.
The call that initially alerted officers came from the woman’s granddaughter, who told dispatchers that a bomb had been thrown through the window. “Yeah, I need somebody here ASAP. They threw something at my grandma’s house. It was a bomb and it blew her whole… window out,” the granddaughter said, according to a recording obtained by 44News.
Upon arrival, officers found several broken windows, burnt paper, and white powder residue on the porch. Though the victim was unable to provide a description of the suspect, a neighbor, who also contacted authorities, mentioned that surveillance cameras across the street captured the incident. The footage revealed a dark-colored SUV circling the block before stopping near the home. The vehicle’s occupant appeared to light a firework and shoot it toward the house before speeding away.
Sgt. Anthony Aussieker, public information officer for the Evansville Police Department, described the incident as “incredibly dangerous.” He highlighted the fire risk posed by such an explosive device, particularly in a home. “That was a large explosion. Should it have landed on something flammable — a curtain, a blanket, something like that — you have a fire hazard in a home. If it hit someone, especially a small child or a pet, it could have been devastating,” Aussieker noted.
While investigators initially feared the object was a bomb, the evidence gathered and video footage suggested it was a firework, not an explosive device. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Authorities are now urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. “These types of investigations are not solved by themselves. We absolutely welcome any help we can get,” Sgt. Aussieker said.
The Evansville Police Department is continuing its investigation and encourages the community to assist with any tips that could lead to identifying the individuals responsible for this dangerous act.
