A 55-year-old man from Inwood, Long Island, has been formally charged after federal authorities uncovered a disturbing plan to detonate homemade bombs throughout New York City.
The suspect allegedly built at least seven improvised explosive devices using chemicals ordered online. He’s accused of hiding several of them on rooftops in SoHo and tossing one onto subway tracks near the Williamsburg Bridge. One device was reported to contain nearly 30 grams of explosive material, far exceeding the legal safety limit.
Law enforcement arrested the man in early June while he was carrying an active device. The charges include attempted destruction of property with explosives, illegal transportation of explosive materials, and possession of destructive devices. If convicted, he could face up to 40 years in prison.
Investigators say the suspect’s online history showed extensive research into explosives and weapons. The coordinated response by federal agents and city police is being credited with preventing what could have been a catastrophic event in the heart of Manhattan. The suspect remains in custody as the case continues.