Billerica – On Saturday, August 19, 2017 at approximately 8:30pm, the Billerica Police received a 911 call reporting a young child had received burns to his legs at an outdoor campfire in the area of 1 Lampson Lane. Officer were immediately dispatched along with Billerica Fire and Ambulance services. Paramedics on scene made a request for Med Flight due to the child’s age and the severity of the injury. Med flight was directed to a landing zone at the Kennedy Elementary School field where the child was brought by Ambulance. The child was subsequently transported via Med Flight to Massachusetts General Hospital with what were described as serious burns to his lower extremities. As is standard protocol, this matter is being investigated by Billerica detectives along with fire personnel.

UPDATE: Information has been received from the victim’s family that the 12 year old male child has been released from the hospital. He did suffer both 1st and 2nd degree burns as a result of the incident. This incident appears to have been accidental with a can of insect repellent having exploded when it was left too close to an active camp fire. The entire Billerica Public Safety apparatus extends our best wishes to the victim and his family as they work through the recovery process of this tragic event. We also want to take an opportunity to remind the public of the importance of safety when enjoying outdoor activities, including both permitted controlled burns and cooking fires.

Any additional questions should be directed to Deputy Chief Roy Frost, 978-215-9653