BONAPARTE, IOWA – Two Iowa men and a teen were locked up recently after cops say they took bottles of soda, added chemicals, then gleefully enjoyed the ensuing explosions.
The trouble began on May 15, 2025, at approximately 9:00 AM, when the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint about possible explosive devices being set off earlier that morning in the 400 block of First Street in Bonaparte, Iowa. A police investigation led to the discovery of several plastic bottles that appeared to have exploded or burst in the reported area. Two additional bottles that had not gone off were also discovered. They were rendered safe by investigating officers.
Witnesses and video surveillance footage indicated that three male suspects were involved in the incident. They were identified as 20-year-old Jacob Barrows, and 20-year-old Taylor A. High both of Bonaparte. The third suspect was identified as a 16-year-old male juvenile of Fairfield, Iowa.
Police say the suspects were replicating a video from Tik Tok where users mixed a common household chemical with soda pop. The two ingredients, when mixed create a chemical reaction that causes pressure/heat to build until the container (in this case plastic bottles) burst/explode.
All three suspects are charged with placing an incendiary or explosive device, a serious misdemeanor.
High and Barrows were booked into the Van Buren County Jail. Both were later released after posting bond. The juvenile suspect was referred to juvenile court.
