A North Andover man has been arrested and an array of weapons including over 30 guns and homemade explosives were seized from his home on Village Green Drive, officials reported. Daniel Medina, 64, is facing a slew of charges after an explosive device allegedly set off by him damaged two vehicles. According to Boston 25 News, authorities conducted a search of Medina's property where they discovered weaponry that included automatic rifles and large-capacity ammunition feeders.
The Essex County District Attorney's Office and North Andover Police were alerted after the explosion, which led to Medina being charged with five felony counts, as noted by WHDH News. In addition to the charges related to the firearms, he is accused of vandalizing property. Neighbors expressed their shock, with some, like Amanda Dry saying it was "very terrifying to know that I had my two children living next to this person who was quite dangerous and more dangerous than we realized at the time," she revealed in a statement obtained by WHDH News.
Medina's cache of weapons, many of which lacked serial numbers as reported by NBC10 Boston, has raised concerns within the community. His license to carry firearms had expired 24 years ago, officials said. The Massachusetts State Police bomb squad was called to assist with the raid, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Furthermore, Medina has been ordered held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing slated for July 12, 2024.
"Anyone who is under the impression that they will not face consequences for illegally stockpiling weapons without a license is absolutely wrong," declared Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker, echoing sentiments expressed by North Andover Police Chief Charles Gray, who thanked the community for their cooperation during the investigation, as reported by WHDH News. Both officials' statements underline a commitment to community safety and legal accountability, highlighting the concerted efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement in the case. Medina has pleaded not guilty to all charges, while the investigation continues to unfold.
