Maryland Festival Rocked by Propane Explosion and Driver Plowing Through Crowd

Laurel, Maryland’s annual Main Street Festival, a beloved community event drawing thousands of attendees each year, was marred by a series of alarming incidents on Saturday. The day began with a propane explosion during vendor setup, followed by a reckless act of violence when a woman drove her car through a crowded area of the festival.

Kai Deberry-Bostick, a 28-year-old woman, was arrested and is facing criminal charges after allegedly breaching barriers and driving down a bustling street at the Main Street Festival. According to the Laurel Police Department, Deberry-Bostick acted recklessly, endangering festival-goers and law enforcement officers alike.

The incident unfolded after the street was closed to vehicular traffic to accommodate the festival. Body camera footage from a Laurel Police officer shows Deberry-Bostick sitting in her car, seemingly contemplating how to navigate the closed-down street. The officer, attempting to be helpful, apologized for the inconvenience and even offered to arrange a taxi for her.

However, Deberry-Bostick appeared unwilling to accept the officer’s assistance. "There has to be another way," she reportedly said, adding, "I’m not taking a taxi all the way to Virginia. I work in Virginia." This statement suggests that Deberry-Bostick was determined to find a way through the street closure, seemingly prioritizing her commute over public safety.

The situation escalated when Deberry-Bostick exited her vehicle and approached the officer. "I’ve gotta go to work!" she exclaimed, demanding, "What do you want me to do?" The officer, sensing the potential for trouble, warned her against disturbing the area. However, Deberry-Bostick disregarded the officer’s warning, retorting, "I might have to."

In a brazen act of defiance, Deberry-Bostick proceeded to tear down the caution tape securing the barrier blocking the road. She then returned to her car and started the engine. As she attempted to drive through the barrier, the officer tried to physically block her path.

"Stop! Stop your car," the officer yelled, desperately trying to prevent Deberry-Bostick from entering the festival area. Shocking footage captured the moment when Deberry-Bostick’s vehicle struck the officer. Despite hitting the officer, Deberry-Bostick continued driving down the street, heading toward the crowds of festival-goers. The officer, injured but determined, pursued her on foot.

Fortunately, the quick thinking and decisive actions of law enforcement prevented any festival attendees from being harmed. In a statement, the Laurel Police Department said, "Thanks to their rapid response, no festival-goers were harmed." However, the department confirmed that "one of our officers did sustain minor injuries after being struck by her vehicle."

The disturbing incident with Deberry-Bostick occurred just hours after an earlier mishap at the festival. As vendors were setting up their booths for the day, a propane explosion occurred, causing injuries to one person. Laurel Mayor Keith R. Sydnor addressed the earlier incident at a news conference, explaining that the injured individual was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The propane explosion led to the cancellation of the festival’s parade, which was originally scheduled to kick off the festivities at 9 a.m. Mayor Sydnor indicated that the investigation into the explosion was unlikely to yield further findings, as it appeared to be a "negligent accident on the vendor setting up."

Despite the day’s unsettling events, Mayor Sydnor emphasized the festival’s long-standing tradition and the importance of community spirit. "This is a festival that’s been going on for 44 years," he stated. "Unfortunately, this accident happened, but we’re glad everyone is safe."

The Main Street Festival is an annual event that closes down Laurel, Maryland’s Main Street. According to the City of Laurel, Maryland website, the festival attracts thousands of attendees who come to enjoy a parade, a diverse array of food vendors, arts and crafts, and other attractions. The festival is a significant event for the local community, providing an opportunity for residents to come together and celebrate.

The incidents at this year’s Main Street Festival serve as a stark reminder of the potential for unexpected dangers at public events. While the propane explosion appears to have been an accident, the actions of Kai Deberry-Bostick were a deliberate act of recklessness that endangered the lives of numerous people.

The Laurel Police Department’s swift response and the bravery of the officer who was struck by the vehicle are commendable. Their actions undoubtedly prevented a much more serious tragedy from unfolding. As the investigation into the incident continues, the community of Laurel will likely be grappling with questions about safety and security at public events.

The events of the day cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous celebration of community. However, the resilience and spirit of the people of Laurel will likely prevail as they work to heal from these incidents and ensure the safety and success of future events. The incident also raises questions about mental health and the potential factors that may have contributed to Deberry-Bostick’s actions. It remains to be seen what further details will emerge as the investigation progresses and the case moves through the legal system.