A New York man, Michael Gann, 55, of Inwood, is facing federal charges after allegedly creating and storing homemade explosives throughout Manhattan. Prosecutors say he made at least seven improvised explosive devices (IEDs) using chemicals bought online. Among the most alarming accusations is that Gann threw one of these devices onto active subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge, endangering countless commuters.
Authorities also discovered that Gann stored explosives, including some equipped with shotgun shells, on rooftops of residential buildings in Manhattan. On June 5, when he was arrested, Gann reportedly had another device on him. That same day, he posted a disturbing message on Instagram suggesting he was planning more violence, saying, “Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow?”
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton emphasized that the safety of New Yorkers remains a top priority. He praised law enforcement’s swift action, which prevented what could have been a major tragedy. FBI Assistant Director Christopher Raia and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch both highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation in averting harm to the public.
Gann now faces several serious charges: attempting to destroy property with explosives (which carries a minimum sentence of five years), transporting explosive materials (maximum ten years), and unauthorized possession of destructive devices (maximum ten years). The case is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit.
In related news, the FBI recently dismantled a significant Chinese espionage ring operating within the U.S., targeting military secrets. The operation led to arrests and was tied directly to the Chinese government.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino stated that nearly 5,000 counterintelligence investigations are ongoing, with over 800 new cases opened in 2025. Arrests have been made involving agents from countries including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, for crimes ranging from espionage to smuggling biological materials.
