An explosion occurred on Brighton Palace Pier at approximately 4:15 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon, injuring 11 people. The blast took place within a canvas and wooden structure near the pierhead that housed a shooting range featuring a unique method: marksmen used air guns to aim at targets, and upon hitting a bullseye, an electrical mechanism triggered a camera to capture the shooter’s photograph using a magnesium flash.

Among those using the range was a member of the Royal Air Force, whose identity has not been disclosed. According to eyewitnesses, the explosion happened immediately after his initial shot, causing significant damage to the apparatus and tearing the canvas covering of the range. The force of the blast was felt throughout the town and caused some damage to the pier deck as well. Authorities noted that the explosion was directed out towards the sea, mitigating what could have otherwise been a more severe outcome given the presence of spectators nearby.

Hospital officials confirmed that four of those injured were treated at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. The exact cause of the explosion remains unclear, although pier officials have suggested a possible accidental ignition of a tin of magnesium powder used in the photographic equipment. An attendant at the shooting range, Lizzie Allen, reported loading the machines with approximately half a spoonful of magnesium powder shortly before the blast. She recalled seeing a flash from the equipment immediately after a soldier fired a shot, but was unable to provide further details about the incident.

Investigations into the explosion are ongoing as officials seek to determine the precise cause and prevent similar incidents in the future.