Federal authorities reportedly announced Tuesday the indictment of a New York man accused of plotting to unleash deadly chaos in Manhattan using improvised explosive devices (IEDs), highlighting what officials described as a narrowly avoided tragedy and a testament to vigilant law enforcement.
Michael Gann, 55, of Inwood, New York, faces multiple federal charges after allegedly building and placing explosive devices across Manhattan, including on rooftops in the SoHo neighborhood and the subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge, a major artery connecting Brooklyn to Manhattan.
The Department of Justice described the case as a sobering reminder of the continued threat posed by domestic actors with the means and intent to harm.
“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,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Thanks to swift work by our law enforcement partners, no one was harmed. That vigilance assuredly prevented a tragedy in New York.”
Gann has been charged with attempted destruction of property by explosive means, transportation of explosive devices, and unlawful possession of explosive devices. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 40 years in prison.
Investigators say Gann began purchasing chemicals, wires, and other bomb-making materials online as early as May 2025.
One device reportedly contained 600 times the legal limit for explosive powder permitted in fireworks. Prosecutors said the accused sought to enhance the devices’ lethality by combining them with shotgun shells.
His online activity painted a concerning picture: searches for “chlorine bomb,” “½ stick dynamite,” and “will i pass a background check” suggested both premeditation and awareness of the potential consequences.
Federal officials also cited troubling social media posts allegedly linked to Gann, including a March 26 message directed at the President that lamented the lack of a border wall and ominously alluded to civil unrest. “Dear @POTUS,” the post read, “…would you just drop a bomb on this place…?”
On the day of his arrest, June 5, Gann allegedly lied to investigators about the whereabouts of one of his devices. That same day, he posted on Instagram: “Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow?”
Authorities credited the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force—a coordinated effort of the FBI, NYPD, ATF, and Nassau County Police Department—with stopping Gann before he could carry out his alleged plan.
“Michael Gann allegedly produced multiple improvised explosive devices intended for use in Manhattan,” said FBI Special Agent Christopher Raia. “Due to the successful partnership of law enforcement agencies in New York, Gann was swiftly brought to justice before he could harm innocent civilians.”
While federal officials emphasized that no injuries occurred and that the situation was swiftly contained, the case underscores the ongoing threat posed by lone actors.
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