By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
• Syracuse firefighters responded to a cupcake vending machine explosion inside a commercial building after a suspect detonated an improvised explosive device.
• The blast occurred about 1:42 p.m. Thursday in the lobby of a building at 404 Oak St. and caused extensive damage to the area.
• Two suspects were arrested in connection with the incident; police allege one lit the device and the other acted as a getaway driver.
• No injuries were reported; a subsequent pursuit and firearm recovery followed the explosion.
SYRACUSE, NY — Fire and police units responded Thursday afternoon after an explosive device detonated inside a cupcake vending machine in a commercial building lobby, officials said.
The explosion occurred about 1:42 p.m. in the lobby of 404 Oak St., triggering fire crews and a large emergency response; firefighters fought lingering hazards and assessed damage, while no civilian or responder injuries were reported.
Syracuse police said a 21-year-old suspect allegedly placed an incendiary device inside the vending machine and lit it before fleeing the scene, prompting an investigative and arrest operation.
A second individual, identified as the vehicle driver, was also arrested after a subsequent police pursuit that included recovery of a loaded firearm, authorities said.
Charges in the case include first-degree arson and weapons offenses; investigators continue to develop the investigation as fire and police units complete their respective examinations of the scene.