Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News, 2014-05-30

The Western Cape Education Department has sent its condolences to the family of a teenage boy who blew himself up while conducting a science experiment.

14 year old Chauncey Davids died after a test involving a lighter, a plastic container and deodorant can exploded at his Westridge home in Mitchells Plain yesterday.

Davids had apparently seen a similar experiment being conducted at his school in  Mondale High School in Mitchells Plan  and wanted to try it at home.

His mom, Beverley Davids, told the Cape Argus that Chauncey wanted to show it to her.

It is thought to be similar to the “woomf bottle” experiment in which gas or alcohol is poured into a bottle and lit, causing a woomf of flame.

Jeannette Bailey, his former teacher at Harvester Primary school, said that Chauncey was a bright student.  “He was a good student and also very curious, trying new experiments all the time.”

Provincial education ministry spokeswoman Bronagh Casey said the Western Cape Education Department was investigating the matter. “We have arranged to send councillors to the school to debrief the learners and staff.”
 
Police spokesman Captain FC van Wyk said an inquest docket had been opened and that no foul play was suspected.

(Twitter: @Faizie143)