HOLLAND, MI (WHTC AM/FM) – This is an updated media release regarding the explosion that occurred in Park Township on July 3rd, 2023, at approximately 11:10 p.m. At that time, an explosion took place that sent shrapnel throughout a crowd that had gathered to watch a private fireworks display in the 1700 block of Main Street.
41 year old Jana Daniels died as a result of injuries suffered from shrapnel striking her in the chest. Nine other victims were struck by shrapnel and received injuries ranging from minor to critical. Several vehicles and homes were also damaged by shrapnel.
Since the explosion, detectives have continued to investigate and have been assisted by members of the Michigan State Police Bomb Squad and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Investigation showed that the device that exploded was not a commercial firework, but a homemade “Salute Cannon” containing gunpowder. The device was intended to create a loud “Salute” or boom when ignited. However, the device exploded and metal pieces of the cannon were dispersed into the crowd.
The case was reviewed the Ottawa County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and on 09/15/23, a charge of Manslaughter was authorized for the subject who brought and lit the cannon. This subject is identified as Anthony Jon Meyer, age 37, of Holland.
On 09/18/23, Meyer was arraigned via video in the 58th District Court by the Honorable Bradley Knoll. Meyer was given a $25,000 Personal Recognizance bond and has been released from the Ottawa County Jail.
This incident remains under investigation and anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office or Silent Observer at 1-877-88-SILENT (745368) or mosotips.com.
-Captain Jake Sparks
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