(KAIR)--Despite rumors to the contrary, there was no major explosion outside the Atchison County Courthouse early Sunday morning.

Instead, authorities are blaming the explosive sounds, and thick smoke, on fireworks.

Both Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson and Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie tell MSC News the remnants of what appears to have been a large firework were found, possibly an M-80 or ¼ stick type firework.

Wilson, following an investigation Sunday, said it appears fireworks were thrown onto Parallel Street, near the Courthouse, from a vehicle traveling in the 400 block of North 5th Street around 1:30 Sunday morning.

Laurie said the only damage discovered was a small spot in the street where the firework debris was found.

Wilson said investigator's believe more fireworks were thrown in, or near, the 400 block of Riley Street around the same time that a hit and run accident occurred.

The investigation is continuing.