Colorado bicyclist injured by cannon blast at charity race; teenagers investigated

Colorado bicyclist injured by cannon blast

DURANGO, Colo. — A bicyclist riding in a multiple sclerosis fundraiser was bombarded by cannon blast in what authorities suspect was a teenage prank gone awry.

The La Plata County Sheriff’s office say it plans to interview five teenagers with their parents next week about the cannon that was fired at the bicyclist Sunday during the fundraiser in Durango.

Authorities say the blast was similar to what is used at sports events to celebrate a touchdown.

Lt. Ed Phippen of the sheriff’s office says black powder and a paper wad holding it blasted out of the cannon. Phippen says the powder burned 37-year-old Ian Altman’s legs.

The explosion also lodged small pieces in Altman’s legs and arms. He finished the race, then later was briefly hospitalized with a fever and possible infection.

Information from: Durango Herald, www.durangoherald.com