New York Man Accused of Stockpiling Homemade Explosives, Threatening City’s Safety
A New York man faces federal charges after allegedly manufacturing and deploying multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) across Manhattan, prompting a swift response from law enforcement and raising serious concerns about public safety. The case, unfolding in July 2024, highlights the growing threat of individuals utilizing readily available materials to construct dangerous weapons.
FBI Uncovers Largest Stash of Homemade Explosives in Virginia
In a separate but related development, the FBI recently seized over 150 homemade explosive devices from a Virginia home, marking the largest such discovery in the agency’s history. While authorities have not directly linked this Virginia case to the New York incidents, it underscores a broader trend of escalating domestic extremism and the proliferation of dangerous materials.
Allegations Against Michael Gann: A Pattern of Dangerous Activity
Michael Gann, 55, of Inwood, New York, is accused of creating at least seven IEDs using precursor chemicals purchased online, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. Prosecutors allege Gann assembled these devices with materials ordered online, including approximately two pounds of potassium perchlorate and one pound of aluminum powder – both key components in explosive mixtures.
The indictment details a disturbing pattern of behavior. Gann allegedly stored at least five IEDs and shotgun shells on the rooftops of apartment buildings in SoHo, a vibrant neighborhood in Lower Manhattan. He is also accused of throwing a sixth IED onto the subway tracks of the Williamsburg Bridge, a critical transportation artery connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn.
“The safety of New Yorkers is paramount,” stated U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “As alleged, Michael Gann built explosive devices, stored them on a rooftop in SoHo, and threw one onto the subway tracks—putting countless lives at risk.”
Arrest and Evidence Recovery
Gann was apprehended on June 5th near the SoHo rooftops, where police recovered a seventh IED he was carrying. Following his arrest, prosecutors claim Gann falsely stated he had disposed of the precursor chemicals and shotgun shells in a dumpster in Chelsea. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Gann carrying some of the IEDs onto the rooftops, with one device containing approximately 30 grams of explosive powder – a quantity prosecutors say is 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Gann is charged with attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, transportation of explosive materials, and unlawful possession of destructive devices. If convicted on all counts, he faces a potential prison sentence of up to 40 years.
Online Activity Reveals Troubling Ideologies
Prior to constructing the IEDs, Gann allegedly posted a concerning message on X (formerly Twitter) on March 27th, tagging the official POTUS account. The message read: “Dear @POTUS, I’m thinking just now here in NYC that it’s too bad that the wall wasn’t built before the National Guard would have to come here for the Protests and Riotation or would you just drop a bomb on this place while and because they seem to be coming and coming?”
Further investigation revealed Gann conducted online searches between May and June 2025 related to bomb-making, firearms, and the use of 3D printers for creating homemade guns. Just hours before his arrest, he posted on Instagram: “Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow?”
Law Enforcement Response and Concerns About 3D-Printed Weapons
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized the successful intervention by law enforcement. “This defendant allegedly stockpiled homemade explosives and traveled to New York City with these deadly devices,” she said. “He threw one of these devices onto an active subway track and stored others on the rooftop of a residential building, but because of the skilled investigative work and swift response from the NYPD and our partners, we were able to intervene before he caused any harm.”
Authorities are also increasingly concerned about the accessibility of 3D printing technology, which can be used to convert standard firearms into fully automatic weapons. This development adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing efforts to combat gun violence and prevent the proliferation of dangerous weapons.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the evolving threats facing urban centers and the critical importance of vigilance and proactive law enforcement measures.
