A recent collaboration between the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office, the Massachusetts State Police, and the Salem Police Department has led to the arrest and arraignment of a Salem man on serious charges. Patrick Gordon, 42, was taken into custody after an investigation uncovered illegal firearms and materials capable of making explosive devices in his possession.
The investigation into Gordon began on December 15, when the Massachusetts State Police received a tip about Gordon having large capacity magazines shipped to his mother’s home in Bedford, New Hampshire, despite not possessing a valid License to Carry or Firearm Identification Card. The AGO alleges that over the past six months, Gordon also ordered multiple firearm-related items and a kit that can create four pounds of thermite to his Harbor Street apartment, as reported by the Massachusetts State Police news release.
A search warrant executed on December 22 at Gordon's residence yielded several firearm components in violation of state gun laws, including parts often utilized in constructing assault rifles. Notably, authorities also discovered a 3D printer which Gordon allegedly used to manufacture "ghost guns" – firearms that are untraceable due to their lack of serial numbers. Additionally, substantial amounts of fuels and oxidizers were seized, which could potentially be used to make destructive or incendiary devices.
Investigators found what they believe to be an illegal quantity of Flash Powder, a highly energetic pyrotechnic compound that is sensitive to heat, shock, static electricity, and friction. The powder, known for producing a bright flash when ignited, is considered illegal to possess in any amount. Gordon has been charged with Possession of an Incendiary Device and Possession of an Assault Weapon, and his bail was set at $100,000. His next court hearing is slated for January 20, 2026, according to the same news release.
As the case proceeds, the allegations against Patrick Gordon remain as such, with the defendant maintaining his legal right to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Assistant Attorney General Diana Fantasia, with the assistance of Chief Jennifer Kirshenbaum from the AGO's Enterprise and Major Crimes Division, is leading the prosecution effort. The case is bolstered by the investigative work of the MSP's Fire and Explosion Investigation Section and the Salem Police Department.
