A 15-year-old ninth-grade student, identified by his initials MA, from SMP Sains Tahfizh Islamic Center Siak in Riau Province, tragically lost his life after an accident during a science practical exam at his school on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
The tragic incident occurred around 10:30 AM Western Indonesian Time (WIB) at the parade ground within the SMP Sains Tahfizh Islamic Center campus, located in Kampung Rempak, Siak District, Siak Regency. The school activity involved several student groups demonstrating their science projects as part of the practical examination.
According to AKP Raja Kosmos, Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit for the Siak Police, the victim was struck by an explosion that occurred during the ongoing science practical session. Each group, consisting of approximately nine students, was tasked with showcasing their completed scientific creations. When it was MA’s group’s turn, he reportedly asked his classmates to move away from the demonstration area before proceeding.
“The victim then prepared to display a device described as a homemade, 3D-printed rifle, which was his own creation,” stated Kosmos. However, tragedy struck when the device was activated; a sudden, powerful explosion ripped through the air, accompanied by thick smoke and a deafening sound. Fragments from the homemade rifle scattered violently, impacting the surrounding area, including classroom walls and the school hall.
MA suffered severe injuries to his face from the debris of the experimental device. He was immediately rushed to Siak Regional General Hospital for urgent medical attention. Despite the efforts of the medical team, MA was unfortunately pronounced dead following their examination.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Siak Police Criminal Investigation Unit team swiftly initiated a comprehensive crime scene investigation (CSI). Preliminary findings at the scene revealed several key materials, including plastic components, metal fragments, and a quantity of black powder, all believed to be directly connected to the explosion. These crucial pieces of evidence have since been secured and are slated for transport to the Riau Regional Police Forensic Laboratory for in-depth analysis.
The Siak Police have extended their deepest condolences to the victim’s family, wishing them strength during this difficult time. “We are still conducting a thorough investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the incident, including exploring any potential elements of negligence. We strongly urge the public to refrain from speculation or spreading unverified information concerning this tragic event,” Kosmos emphasized, appealing for patience and respect for the ongoing investigative process.
Summary
A 15-year-old student, MA, from SMP Sains Tahfizh Islamic Center Siak, tragically died on April 8, 2026, during a science practical exam. The incident occurred around 10:30 AM WIB at the school’s parade ground when MA was demonstrating a homemade, 3D-printed rifle he had created. The device suddenly exploded with a powerful sound and thick smoke, causing severe facial injuries to MA. Despite being rushed to Siak Regional General Hospital, he was unfortunately pronounced dead.
Following the tragedy, the Siak Police Criminal Investigation Unit launched an investigation, finding plastic components, metal fragments, and black powder at the scene. These materials have been sent for forensic analysis to the Riau Regional Police Forensic Laboratory. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and any potential negligence. The police have urged the public to refrain from speculation while the investigation is ongoing.