The Labor Day parade in South Plainfield, New Jersey was canceled after authorities said they found homemade explosive devices near the route. Governor Phil Murphy and his wife Tammy were expected to lead the 62nd annual event, which was set to start at 10 a.m.
According to ABC News, the devices were found near a wooded area along the route. Authorities said the property owner, identified as Thomas, 55, was taken into custody. He was charged with possession of a destructive device for an unlawful purpose in the second degree and possession of a destructive device in the third degree, according to a joint statement from the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.
Prosecutors said, “It is anticipated that additional charges will be forthcoming.” They also said the investigation began in Monmouth County after a suspicious package was found at a bar and restaurant in Sea Bright, which led investigators to his home near where the parade was set to begin. Police said no direct threat was made against the governor or the parade.
Thomas’s brother, who did not want to be identified, told reporters the devices were fireworks that Thomas bought at a concert at the Jersey shore. He said there were no bombs and that officers found nothing else in the home or the area. Those claims have not been confirmed by investigators.
The charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
