Wanton endangerment charges after suspect throws M-80 at off-duty deputy

LONDON, Ky. (WTVQ) – The Laurel County Sheriff says two people are behind bars after one of them threw an M-80 explosive firework at an off-duty deputy’s vehicle.

The Sheriff says it happened just before 9:30 p.m. Wednesday evening on KY 229.

According to the Sheriff, the passenger of a silver Volvo threw the firework out of the window and into the road where it blew up near the off-duty deputy’s driver’s side.  The deputy reportedly swerved and nearly lost control of his vehicle, reacting to the explosion.

The deputy was able to get the car pulled over off River Road, according to the Sheriff.  While investigating, the Sheriff says the driver, 19-year-old Sierra Ritter, began causing a disturbance.

The passenger who threw the firework, 20-year-old Justin Mulrenin, was charged with wanton endangerment.

Ritter was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, reckless driving, disorderly conduct, and multiple traffic violations, along with charges associated with an outstanding warrant.

They were both taken to the Laurel County Detention Center.