BERLIN, Md. - Maryland State Police arrested four juveniles and one adult after they received calls from the area near Maid at Arms Lane
in the Glenn Riddle Community in reference to a red pickup truck driving
through the community while throwing explosive devices from the vehicle.
Around 10:05 Friday, November 16th, Troopers
along with Sheriff's Deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff's
Office, conducted an extensive investigation which revealed the suspects
were throwing homemade
bombs from their vehicle. The explosive devices were made from common
household products purchased at a local convenience store just before
the incident. The explosive devices were identified by the Fire
Marshall's
Office as "hydrogen gas bombs."
Officials say the devices
explode and cause severe chemical burns. The Investigation revealed that these
devices were being manufactured inside the pickup, passed to
other occupants and then thrown out of the vehicle as a chemical
reaction was occurring within the devices. Several of these devices exploded on
the roadways and near homes and vehicles within the Glenn Riddle Community.
The five suspects were charged with manufacturer and posses a
destructive device, posses explosive device, and reckless endangerment. The four Juveniles were released to their parents, while the adult was taken before a district court
commissioner and released on personal recognizance. All suspects are awaiting a
court hearing.
The manufacturing and possession of explosive devices are both Felonies
in the State Of Maryland and carry a maximum penalty of 25 years incarceration
and /or $250,000 fine each. Reckless Endangerment carries a maximum penalty of
5 years incarceration and/or $5,000.00 fine.
No one was injured in the incident.