Police Suspect 'Spudzooka' Used to Launch Potatoes, Damage Property

UPDATE: The "Spudzooka" theory was debunked at least in Caldwell, where a Cedar Grove teen was charged for throwing a potato through a living room window. 

Residents of multiple Essex towns have reported property damaged by potatoes police believe were launched using a homemade cannon, according to officials. 

Three incidents of broken house windows and a damaged car where a potato was later found were reported to police in Caldwell, Cedar Grove and Verona in the last five days. Police believe the potatoes are being launched from a car that pulls up to the intended target.

No injuries were reported as a result of these incidents, which appear to be random pranks.

A resident of Hillside and Hatfield avenues in Caldwell told police a potato was shot or thrown through her living room window on Thursday, March 28, at about 9:30 p.m. 

Broken glass and a potato were found in the room, Caldwell police Det. Andrew Apicella said.

A Verona resident reported damage to a car parked in front of a Lynwood Road home on Friday, March 29.

“The tail light of the car was smashed in with the potato still inside,” said Verona Police Capt. Mitchell Stern. “After checking the area, a potato was found on Cyprus Avenue across the street.”

In Cedar Grove, two homeowners reported broken front windows over the weekend.

“Based on evidence left at the scene, it is believed the suspects shot potatoes at the residences by means of a potato gun,” Cedar Grove officials said.

Potato guns are not a new fad, said Stern, who recalls dealing with them in the late 1980s.

Several websites demonstrate how to make a potato launcher, also called a spud gun or “spudzooka,” by using PVC pipes and other materials commonly found at hardware stores. The guns can use either air pressure or combustion of a starting fluid, such as hair spray.

Anyone with information regarding these incidents is asked to call their local police department.