The deceased have been identified as Sanjay (14) and Nagaraj (14), both residents of Jaraganahalli. Sanjay was a student of Frank English Medium School, while Nagaraj was from Oxford School. Both were students of Class VI.

The injured are Naveen Kumar, Ameen Amandubey, Kushal Kumar, Manjuanth, Vikas and Manju, all aged 14, and residents of Jaraganahalli and balloon vendor Manoj (15), a resident of Uttar Pradesh. The injured have been admitted to Rajashekhar Hospital in Jayanagar and are said to be out of danger. Of the injured, Naveen Kumar and Ameen Amandubey, were treated as outpatients and discharged, the JP Nagar police said.

The incident occurred around 4:45 pm near Ayyappaswamy temple at Sarakki Garden 35th Cross. As it was Sunday, many children had gathered near the temple premises to play games. Manoj had come to the area to sell balloons. He was carrying the balloons on his bicycle fitted with hydrogen gas cylinder.

Many children approached Manoj to buy the balloons. Manoj was busy blowing air into the balloon from the cylinder. Within minutes the pressure built up and due to other reasons (which are, say the police, yet to be ascertained) the cylinder suddenly exploded making a huge noise.

Nagaraj and Sanjay, who were standing very close to Manoj, sustained severe injuries on their head, face, chest and stomach. While Nagarj was killed on the spot, Sanjay was still breathing.

Seven other boys, who were present on the spot including Manoj, also sustained minor injuries. Sanjay was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. However, he breathed his last within minutes, said the police.