by Nick Rappley, Merced (Calif.) Sun-Star
Turlock, Calif. -- A city employee performing maintenance at Pedretti Park is undergoing treatment for injuries received when a bomb exploded in a portable restroom at the park.
Brian Moore, 19, of Denair, was initially taken to Emanuel Medical Center in Turlock, where he underwent emergency surgery for extensive injuries. He has since been transferred to Ralph K. Davies Hospital in San Francisco, where he is listed in fair condition.
Turlock police say Moore was working park maintenance shortly after 9 a.m. Tuesday when he entered a portable restroom.
Inside, he found what appeared to be a flashlight, and he turned it on.
An explosion immediately followed, causing serious injuries to Moore’s right hand, abdomen, groin and legs. Moore lost at least two fingers on his right hand, police said.
Turlock Police Spokeswoman Rosemary Howser said the park was immediately closed but was reopened to the public on Wednesday. Police continue to investigate.