WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — The car of a prominent Arkansas doctor exploded outside his home Wednesday, critically injuring him, authorities said.
The FBI is investigating whether foul play might have been involved in the explosion of a vehicle belonging to Dr. Trent P. Pierce, the chairman of the Arkansas State Medical Board.
The blast happened Wednesday in Pierce's driveway in West Memphis. He was taken to the hospital, where he was listed in critical condition.
A second, unidentified person also was hurt, but details about the extent of injuries weren't immediately available.
Board attorney William Trice said he believes Pierce drives a hybrid, but he had no information on what caused the explosion.
He said he knew of no disputes the chairman was involved in and said Pierce doesn't even vote on many board matters.
"This is just off the wall," Trice said. "It's just such bizarre circumstances."
The FBI said they are "not sure of the origin" of the explosion.
"It's too early to tell," an FBI spokesman said. "Don't be surprised if this turns into a [car] malfunction."
Two agents from the FBI's national headquarters have joined the ATF and local law enforcement on the scene. Authorities are interviewing witnesses.
Pierce, a family physician, was appointed in January 1997 by former Gov. Mike Huckabee.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The FBI is investigating whether foul play might have been involved in the explosion of a vehicle belonging to Dr. Trent P. Pierce, the chairman of the Arkansas State Medical Board.
The blast happened Wednesday in Pierce's driveway in West Memphis. He was taken to the hospital, where he was listed in critical condition.
A second, unidentified person also was hurt, but details about the extent of injuries weren't immediately available.
Board attorney William Trice said he believes Pierce drives a hybrid, but he had no information on what caused the explosion.
He said he knew of no disputes the chairman was involved in and said Pierce doesn't even vote on many board matters.
"This is just off the wall," Trice said. "It's just such bizarre circumstances."
The FBI said they are "not sure of the origin" of the explosion.
"It's too early to tell," an FBI spokesman said. "Don't be surprised if this turns into a [car] malfunction."
Two agents from the FBI's national headquarters have joined the ATF and local law enforcement on the scene. Authorities are interviewing witnesses.
Pierce, a family physician, was appointed in January 1997 by former Gov. Mike Huckabee.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.