Explosives damage sign at St. Charles North
An explosive device damaged a large metal sign at St. Charles North High School late Wednesday but didn't hurt anyone.
Police responded at 11:37 p.m. to reports of an explosion at the school grounds along Red Gate Road, just east of Route 31. No one was in the school at the time.
A preliminary investigation showed "some type of explosive device" had been set off on the sign, police said Thursday, declining to elaborate on the nature of the device.
St. Charles police spokesman Paul McCurtain said investigators are conducting interviews but have no suspects. The Kane County Sheriff's Bomb and Arson Investigation Squad is assisting.
"If it is considered to be a prank by someone, then it's unusual," McCurtain said. "We see more of that type of incident in the springtime."
Standing on a post, the sign is about 4 feet off the ground and is approximately 10 feet wide and 6 feet high. A gift from North's first graduating class in 2003, it often displayed electronic messages about upcoming events.
Superintendent Don Schlomann was unsure whether any part of the sign was salvageable. It would cost about $20,000 to replace, he said.
Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to call (630) 377-4435. Tipsters can remain anonymous by calling (866) 378-4267.