Prosecutors say a family argument in Butler took a violent turn when a 31-year-old man allegedly punched his father, hit him with a hammer, and left an explosive device inside the house.
The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Timothy Butler, is now facing multiple assault charges along with a count of possessing an explosive device and is awaiting a preliminary hearing.
According to charging documents reported by ButlerRadio, officers were dispatched to a home in the 100 block of North Road after the victim confronted Butler about allegedly using drugs in the garage. An argument broke out, and prosecutors allege Butler punched his father and then struck him with a hammer.
During a subsequent search of the residence, police recovered what investigators described as an explosive device. A witness told officers the device belonged to Butler and alleged that he had threatened to burn the victim’s home and other houses to the ground, according to the report. Prosecutors have charged Butler with two counts of aggravated assault, simple assault, and possession of an explosive device.
State Law and What the Charges Can Mean
Pennsylvania’s Crimes Code outlines a range of serious penalties for aggravated assault and for offenses involving arson and explosives. State law also specifically criminalizes the possession of explosive or incendiary materials, and the involvement of such devices can increase potential penalties.
For those who want to read the statutes themselves, the aggravated assault law appears in 18 Pa.C.S. § 2702, while arson and related offenses are detailed in 18 Pa.C.S. § 3301. At this stage, all of the charges are allegations, and the case has not yet gone to trial.
Those statutes will frame how the court evaluates the charges at Butler’s preliminary hearing, where a judge will decide whether there is enough evidence, or probable cause, for the case to move forward.
What’s Next in the Case
Butler remains charged and is awaiting a preliminary hearing, according to ButlerRadio. The outlet’s reporting did not include detailed information on bail or the current condition of the victim.
This story will be updated as additional court records are filed and as local law enforcement or prosecutors release further information.
