New York Man Charged with Explosive Devices

The New York Police Department, in collaboration with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, has announced plans to prevent potential domestic terrorist attacks in New York City. This includes addressing the threat of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) that have reportedly been planned for deployment.

Authorities have brought charges against a 55-year-old man named Michael Gunn. Jay Clayton, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, along with NYPD’s Jessica S. Tisch and Christopher G. Raia from the FBI’s New York Field office, detailed the allegations against him.

Gunn, who resides in Inwood, a hamlet in Nassau County on Long Island, is accused of manufacturing “at least seven improvised explosive devices” using precursor chemicals purchased online. Law enforcement officials also disclosed that he allegedly hid “at least five IEDs and shotgun shells” on rooftops in Manhattan’s Soho neighborhood.

In a particularly alarming incident, Gunn is said to have thrown one of the IEDs into a subway truck at Williamsburg Bridge. His actions reportedly included misleading law enforcement about disposing of his explosives.

The suspect is believed to have ordered the necessary materials online in May, collecting them shortly after in June. He was arrested in Soho on June 5, 2025, during which officers seized a seventh IED from him.

Just hours before his arrest, Gunn posted on Instagram, questioning, “Who wants to go out and play like tomorrow?”

Authorities reported that during May and June, he conducted several online searches related to explosives and firearms, including terms like “how to make flash powder from household goods.”

“The safety of New Yorkers is paramount,” stated U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “It’s startling to think that Gunn created a device and stored it on a rooftop, posing a risk to numerous lives. Fortunately, prompt action from law enforcement prevented any harm.”

FBI agent Christopher G. Raia remarked on the efficiency of the law enforcement collaboration, noting that the quick response helped bring Gunn to trial before he could cause any injuries.

NYC Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying that Gunn stockpiled homemade explosives and targeted New York City with these dangerous devices.

Gunn faces multiple charges, including attempting to destroy property with an explosive, transporting explosives, and illegal possession of a destructive device. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 40 years in prison.