Manhattan Bomb Plot Foiled: New York Man Arrested with Homemade Explosives
A 55-year-old man from New York has been charged with manufacturing and stashing homemade bombs across Manhattan, including on active subway tracks and residential rooftops. Michael Gann, of Inwood, allegedly built at least seven improvised explosive devices (IEDs) using chemicals purchased online. According to U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton, Gann’s actions put countless lives at risk, but thanks to swift law enforcement work, no one was harmed.
Authorities say Gann threw an IED onto the Williamsburg Bridge subway tracks and stored explosives on rooftops in SoHo, including one device with approximately 30 grams of explosive powder. He was arrested on June 5 with another device on him. Gann’s alleged actions have sparked concerns about public safety, but law enforcement officials are breathing a sigh of relief that their coordinated effort intervened before he could cause harm.
Gann faces charges of attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, transportation of explosive materials, and unlawful possession of destructive devices, with penalties ranging from five to 20 years in prison. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit. The arrest highlights the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies in preventing potential tragedies.
