Man arrested after Lake Pleasant bonfire explosion injures teen

A 16-year-old girl suffered serious facial injuries when an object exploded at a bonfire near 67th Avenue and North New River Road on October 30. Several other people were treated for minor injuries. The injured teen was taken to a hospital and is receiving care at Phoenix's burn-treatment center, her sister said.

Police said a large group of young people had gathered around the fire along the roads by the western side of Saddle Mountain and the northern stretch of New River Road when someone allegedly threw an object into it. The object exploded about three to five minutes later. The victim’s sister said an automotive shock absorber was hurled into the fire and struck the teen in the jaw; she also described fractures to the girl’s jaws, cheekbones and nose, as well as burns.

Detectives identified 24-year-old Samuel Schnee as a suspect after gathering evidence and conducting interviews. Phoenix police took him into custody without incident on November 6. He is charged with several offenses, including aggravated assault and endangerment. The victim’s family has urged witnesses to share any further details with police and set up a fundraiser for expenses.