Man killed by exploding ball

A FRENCHMAN has been killed by an exploding petanque ball.

The freak accident took place in sweltering temperatures on Thursday in the South-West town of Boulou, close to France’s border with Spain.

The metal ball had somehow got on to the grill being used for the unnamed victim’s family barbecue. It then exploded and pieces flew into the 31-year-old’s head.

A source said: “Medics were called and a doctor arrived by air ambulance to organise an evacuation by helicopter. Sadly the victim died from very serious injuries.”

It is thought it is the first time a petanque – or boules ball – has killed someone.