A routine traffic stop in Wyandotte unexpectedly turned into a major bomb scare on Wednesday night when officers discovered a homemade explosive device inside a van. According to FOX 2 Detroit, the van was initially stopped for a minor infraction; however, during the interaction, police noted inconsistencies in the two men's stories, which prompted a search of the vehicle.
The device, filled with shrapnel and designed to inflict maximum harm, was uncovered and safely disarmed by the collaborative efforts of Wyandotte and Dearborn police. As stated by the Wyandotte Police Department, as per FOX 2 Detroit, "This type of explosive device is designed to do one thing, kill or injure people". Dearborn Police and its bomb squad team were thanked for their assistance in the resolution of, what could have been, a devastating event.
Arrested at the scene, the two men, ages 31 and 36, are now facing charges of possession of an explosive device, dangerous drugs, and cocaine, according to the Detroit Free Press. Their identities have not been released pending arraignment.
Though still early in the investigation, Wyandotte Police Chief Archie Hamilton stressed the importance of patience and thoroughness, "We just want to make sure we do our due diligence to ensure the safety of the public," Hamilton said, as per the Detroit Free Press. The authorities are looking into whether these men acted alone or, if there are more individuals involved in this potential plot.
Commending the police work that averted tragedy, the local department acknowledged that because of their officers' "outstanding policework", the bomb "will never hurt anyone." Both the community and the officers involved are breathing easier with the dangerous device neutralized, and the suspects detained—a stark reminder of the unpredictability and perils law enforcement can encounter even during what appears to be a routine traffic stop, as cited by WWJ News Radio.
