Unaccounted Mortar Firework Prompts Urgent Warning in Leadwood

Leadwood, Mo. (KFMO) - Authorities in Leadwood are urging the public to remain vigilant after a live mortar-style firework went missing from Leadwood City Park Saturday morning.

The explosive device was discovered by members of the Leadwood Fire Protection District during a safety sweep following Friday night’s private fireworks explosion that injured six people near Leadwood Park. Fire officials had returned to the site to locate and secure any remaining hazardous materials.

According to a statement from the fire district, the mortar was marked for safety after being located. While a crew member retrieved a safety cone, two juvenile males were observed near the device's location. A Leadwood police officer approached the teens after they failed to leave the area as instructed. The juveniles claimed they were looking for a lost phone.

Shortly after the interaction, fire crews discovered the mortar was no longer where it had been marked.

Officials emphasize that the device had been confirmed and clearly marked before the teens arrived. Its disappearance has raised serious safety concerns.

“These types of mortars are not safe to handle,” said Leadwood Fire Chief Charlie Lewis. “They are powerful enough to cause catastrophic injury, including the loss of fingers, hands, or worse.”

Residents are being asked to speak with their children and teens immediately and to avoid handling any suspicious items. If someone locates the missing mortar or a similar device, they should not touch it and call 911 immediately.

The Leadwood Fire Protection District and police department stress this is not about blame, it’s about public safety. With a dangerous explosive still unaccounted for, officials say time is of the essence.

KFMO B104 News will continue to follow this developing story and bring you the latest on-air and online.