NYC Man Indicted for Homemade IEDs

A 55-year-old New York man, Michael Gann, has been indicted on multiple charges for allegedly building and possessing several improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Authorities say he ordered the chemicals online, assembled the devices, and stored them on apartment building roofs in SoHo before tossing one onto subway tracks.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/27fe0666-23e5-40ba-9681-ee9342536278/homemade-ied_1753234365192_hpMain.jpg" alt="Image of an IED found on subway tracks">

The Charges:

Gann faces three counts:

• Attempted destruction of property by means of explosives
• Transportation of explosive materials
• Unlawful possession of destructive devices

The Indictment Details:

The indictment reveals Gann ordered chemicals capable of creating explosive mixtures, cardboard tubes, and fuses online. He tested the chemicals on Long Island before assembling the IEDs in Manhattan. The devices contained approximately 30 grams of explosive powder, far exceeding legal limits.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/82e3d939-a9ff-44a6-8092-78cec6da5c88/homemade-ied-roof_1753234922211_hpMain.jpg" alt="Image of IEDs found on an apartment roof">

The Arrest & Aftermath:

Gann was arrested on June 5th and has been in custody since. He had previously posted an ominous Instagram message hours before his arrest. Authorities are still investigating a motive but note Gann has a history of 12 felony arrests and three convictions. Fortunately, none of the devices detonated.

U.S. Attorney's Statement:

U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton emphasized the paramount importance of New Yorker's safety and praised law enforcement's swift action in preventing potential tragedy. You can read his full statement here.

This case highlights the serious threat posed by individuals who acquire and utilize explosive materials illegally, underscoring the need for vigilance and robust law enforcement.