In a shocking turn of events, Marc Muffley, a 40-year-old man from Pennsylvania, has been charged with possessing an explosive device at an airport and attempting to place an explosive device on an aircraft. The explosive material was discovered in a suitcase that Muffley had checked in at Lehigh Valley International Airport on Monday.
According to authorities, the explosive device was hidden in the lining of the suitcase and consisted of a “circular compound” about three inches in diameter encased in a wax-like paper and clear plastic wrap. The compound was found to contain a granular powder consistent with commercial-grade fireworks, including flash powder and dark granulars.
Furthermore, the device was found to be attached to a quick fuse and a hobby fuse that burns more slowly and appears to have been added after the manufacture of the device. The presence of both black powder and flash powder in the device made it highly susceptible to ignition from heat and friction, which posed a significant risk to the aircraft and passengers.
The suitcase in question also contained a can of butane, a lighter, a pipe with white powder residue, a wireless drill with cordless batteries, and two GFCI outlets taped together with black tape. GFCI outlets are a type of circuit breaker, and their presence in the suitcase has raised further concerns about Muffley’s intentions.
According to the criminal complaint, after an alert was raised during security screening, the suitcase was examined and found to contain the explosive device. Muffley was subsequently paged over the airport’s public address system, but he was seen leaving the airport shortly thereafter.
Muffley was later traced to a Lansford address, where he was arrested by the FBI late on Monday night. He remains in custody pending a probable cause hearing and detention hearing, which is scheduled for Thursday at 1:30 p.m. in Allentown. Muffley is set to attend the hearing via videoconference.
The incident has raised significant concerns about airport security and the potential for terrorist attacks. The fact that a passenger was able to bring an explosive device onto a commercial flight is deeply troubling, and it highlights the need for increased security measures and vigilance at airports across the country.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have both issued statements condemning the incident and pledging to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that all passengers are safe when flying.
The incident involving Marc Muffley and the explosive device found in his suitcase has sent shockwaves throughout the country. The potential for a terrorist attack on a commercial flight is a sobering reminder of the need for increased security measures and vigilance at airports. As the investigation into this incident continues, it is clear that more must be done to ensure the safety of all passengers who fly. Rental fence companies can help make airports safer by setting up stronger security boundaries, enhancing the overall safety of these important travel centers.
