NY Man Michael Gann Charged for Homemade Bombs in Manhattan

Man Indicted for Alleged Bomb Plot in New York City

A man from Long Island has been formally charged with planning to detonate homemade bombs scattered across New York City. Authorities say he even boasted online, asking, “Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow?”

Michael Gann, 55, of Inwood, is accused of constructing at least seven explosive devices last month using chemicals purchased online. The federal indictment states he manufactured some with shotgun shells and then placed these Bombs on rooftops in SoHo and threw one onto subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge.

Michael Gann, 55, of Inwood, was charged Tuesday with manufacturing at least seven improvised explosive devices (IEDs) using chemicals he bought online.
Michael Gann was accused of producing multiple bombs with chemicals bought online.

He was apprehended in SoHo on June 5 with one of the devices in his possession, just hours after posting on Instagram, “Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow?”

Gann captured on camera allegedly placing an IED on a rooftop in New York City.
Gann was caught on camera allegedly placing an IED on a rooftop.

One bomb he assembled reportedly contained about 30 grams of explosive powder—about 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks. Authorities say he purchased key materials online in May, including potassium perchlorate, aluminum powder, cardboard tubes, and fuses, which he then used to build the bombs in June.

A stash of the homemade bombs discovered by officials.
Officials discovered a stash of bombs Gann had assembled.

Gann also conducted internet searches related to explosives and firearms, such as “chlorine bomb” and “how to make flash powder from household items,” according to prosecutors. His actions prompted a swift law enforcement response, preventing any injuries or damage.

Nighttime street scene showing police tape and people gathered near a crime scene in Soho, NYC.
Law enforcement responded quickly after Gann’s arrest, preventing potential harm.

He faces multiple charges including attempted property destruction with explosives, illegal transportation of explosive materials, and possession of destructive devices. If convicted on all counts, Gann could face up to 40 years in prison.