2 Pueblo Police Officers Injured in Explosion

Device detonated while technicians were processing evidence at the police department's bomb range.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two officers with the Pueblo Police Department were injured after an explosive device 'inadvertently detonated' while they were processing evidence at the department's bomb range. One officer received first- and second-degree burns, while the other suffered first-, second-, and third-degree burns and was taken to a Denver burn unit for treatment. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is assisting with the ongoing criminal investigation.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the risks and dangers that police officers face when dealing with explosive devices as part of their duties. It also raises questions about the safety protocols and training in place for handling such volatile evidence, especially at a time when concerns over public safety and police-community relations are heightened.

The details

According to a city spokesperson, the Pueblo Metro Bomb Squad Explosive Ordinance Disposal Technicians and Para-Technicians were processing evidence at the Pueblo Police Department's bomb range when the explosion occurred. The device was seized as part of a criminal investigation, and it detonated while the technicians were trying to render the device safe and collect evidence.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday morning.

The players

Pueblo Police Department

The local law enforcement agency in Pueblo, Colorado that employs the two officers injured in the explosion.

Pueblo Metro Bomb Squad

The specialized unit within the Pueblo Police Department that was handling the explosive device when the incident occurred.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

The federal agency that is assisting the Pueblo Police Department with the ongoing criminal investigation into the explosive device.

Chris Noeller

The Chief of the Pueblo Police Department, who expressed concern for the injured officers and commitment to supporting them through the recovery process.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Today is a difficult day; two of our team members were injured while serving the community of Pueblo. We're holding them close in our hearts and will stand beside them through the recovery process.”

— Chris Noeller, Chief, Pueblo Police Department (kktv.com)

What’s next

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives will continue to assist the Pueblo Police Department with the ongoing criminal investigation into the explosive device that detonated.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks and dangers that police officers face when dealing with explosive devices as part of their duties. It highlights the need for robust safety protocols, specialized training, and interagency cooperation to ensure the safety of both officers and the public.