Two people were killed Tuesday afternoon in Deschutes County when a World War II-era tank exploded.
According to the Oregon State Police, two people were inside the tank at the Central Oregon Shooting Sports Association range east of Bend. Names and other details were not released, pending further investigation and notification of family members.
Shortly after 3 p.m., Deschutes County Sheriff’s deputies along with Oregon State Police and Bend Fire Department responded to an explosion at the range.
After arriving, deputies confirmed there were injuries resulting from the explosion. Bend Fire Department paramedics arrived and attempted lifesaving efforts; however, the two injured persons died from their injuries.
This is a joint investigation by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division and the Oregon State Police Arson and Explosives Section.
