Two youngsters experienced burn-like injuries after encountering slides coated with a corrosive substance at Bliss Park in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Authorities responded to reports of a suspicious substance on the playground equipment Sunday morning. Around the same time, emergency personnel were dispatched to a residence where two children who had recently left the park were reported to have burns.
Investigations revealed that muriatic acid, a chemical used for cleaning and pool maintenance, was stolen from a locked storage area at the park's pool and subsequently poured onto three slides. The contaminated playground remains closed off, although the hazardous materials have been removed.
Law enforcement officials have collected evidence and submitted it to the state crime lab for analysis. While no arrests have been made, authorities suspect the perpetrator(s) may have also sustained acid burns to their hands or arms and possibly damaged their clothing. They urge anyone with information about individuals with recent burn injuries or damaged clothing to contact the Longmeadow police.
