Police Officer Seriously Injured In 'Terrible Accident' At SWAT Training

BRIDGEWATER (CBS) – A Middleboro police officer was seriously injured when a training device exploded in his hands during a SWAT training exercise in Bridgewater.

The incident happened just after 11 a.m. while the officer was participating in a training session at MCI Bridgewater along with the Southeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council SWAT Unit.

Initial investigation shows the officer was using a 37 mm projectile launcher that was loaded with training rounds. The launcher is used in SWAT operations requiring action such as as smoke screens, flares, noisemaker rounds, and "flash bang" style grenades.

During the exercise, the device exploded. Investigators believe the launcher malfunctioned.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the officer remains hospitalized. His identification has not been released.

"The officer was conducting high-level training as a member of our region's vital SWAT unit when what appears to be a terrible accident occurred that left him with serious injuries," Middleboro Police Chief Joseph Perkins said. "We wish our officer all the best as he receives treatment for his wounds."