Christopher Pekny, 28, was building a system in the Catskills town of Liberty for his child’s gender-reveal party when it exploded just before noon Sunday, state police said.
Police say that the blast killed Pekny and wounded his 27-year-old brother, Michael Pekny, who was treated at an area hospital for his injuries.
CBS New York notes that candles and flowers at the Livingston Manor Diner, run by the victim’s family, symbolize the heartbreak his friends and family are experiencing. A statement was released by Pekny’s family saying they are heartbroken by his death but thankful for the outpouring of love and support by the community.
His death is the latest in a series of tragedies blamed in recent years on defective gender-reveal products.
