Bakersfield power plant implosion was a planned demolition, but people were injured by shrapnel far beyond the "safe" zone.

The Kern Power plant scheduled implosion resulted in five injuries, and at least one man suffered an amputation.

Five spectators were injured on Saturday due to flying shrapnel at the demolition of a decommissioned steam power plant in Bakersfield, Calif.

The power plant implosion attracted a crowd of about 1,000 people at around 6 A.M. to watch the plant implode. The planned implosion of the steam plant owned by Pacific Gas and Electric in Bakersfield was to be a calm demolition but resulted in injuries.

After the explosion, authorities immediately heard a man screaming for help and saw that his leg was severed.

A police officer ran to help.

"It was a piece of shrapnel that came flying out of the explosion and came across and went through a couple of chain link fences, struck him and impacted into a vehicle," said Lt. Scott Tunnicliffe.

The victim, a 44-year-old man, may also lose his other leg due to his injuries.

The Kern power plant explosion injured at least five people. All of the injured spectators were behind the perimeter that was supposed to be "safe".

The plant was decommissioned in 1986 and has been empty ever since. Bakersfield residents were eager to see the plant torn down for new development.

Denny Boyles with PG&E said in a statement, "Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured during the demolition. Safety of the public and employees is our first priority at all times and we are deeply saddened that at least one individual suffered serious injuries. We will work closely with all investigating agencies and the third-party contractors who managed and carried out the demolition as they work to identify the cause of this accident."

And, they said, they regret the occurrence.

"We are deeply saddened that this happened," Boyles said. "We're looking for answers like everyone else."

Watch a video of the Bakersfield power plant implosion below: