Note. OP says this gun is a P229 in .40. Looks like an elite version too, with the front cocking serrations and wood grips. Never thought this would happen.

Wow, lucky no one was hurt.

I think that was a rigged, intentional destruction. I've experienced a squib load in my 220. Had a slightly bulged barrel, which shot fine afterwards. A double charged can cause that kind of damage, but it's such a rare occurance in factory ammo. I think the odds of having a jumbo jet crash on you are greater. I don't buy it. No injuries ? I don't think so. There are some serious haters on AR15.com. who slam any and everything. Maybe I'm into conspiracies, but gun was blown up on purpose.

I have to agree. it seems like it should have caused some hurt to the shooter.