Local News

New Hampshire man accused of discharging shotgun, causing fireworks fire

Police say the shotgun round went through a wall at his Winchester home in September, across the street, and into Stateline Fireworks, causing between $600,000 and $1 million in damage.

WINCHESTER, N.H. (AP) — Police have accused a New Hampshire man of recklessly discharging his shotgun at home, causing a fire at a nearby fireworks store.

Police say a 12-gauge, slug-style shotgun round went through a wall at the Winchester home in September, across the street and into Stateline Fireworks. Police say the 3,000-square-foot store was filled with fire, smoke, and exploding fireworks in less than 48 seconds. No one was hurt.

Damage is estimated to be between $600,000 and $1 million.

Police recently arrested 75-year-old Joseph Champagne on charges including reckless conduct, criminal mischief and falsifying physical evidence. He’s been released on bail and is scheduled for arraignment on Jan. 3, 2019.

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It wasn’t immediately known if he had a lawyer and a phone number was unpublished.

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