City employee injured in battery explosion

TORRINGTON – Juan Cervantes, an employee of the town of LaGrange, sustained severe burns when a lithium battery exploded in his pocket. 

Cervantes suffered second and third degree burns over 18% of his body and is recovering from two surgeries, according to a release announcing an upcoming fundraiser for him and his family. 

The BBQ fundraiser is scheduled for Friday, July 18, at 6 p.m. at the LaGrange Community Building. The event will operate on “free will donations” to help Cervantes and his wife Chelsi cover expenses while he is unable to work.

Community members seeking information about additional donations can contact Cathy at 307-834-2466.

This story was published on July 16, 2025.