Federal prosecutors charge Michael Gann with building and hiding explosives across NYC, including one thrown onto subway tracks—averting what could have been mass tragedy.
New York City, July 16, 2025 — In a chilling case that has rocked the city, Michael Gann, a 55-year-old Manhattan resident, has been formally charged with manufacturing and stockpiling deadly homemade explosives across New York City, including on subway tracks, SoHo rooftops, and residential buildings, federal authorities announced Tuesday.
Described by prosecutors as a “ticking time bomb in human form,” Gann allegedly constructed at least seven improvised explosive devices (IEDs) using chemicals purchased online — some of which were reportedly packed with shotgun shells for lethal impact.
“Michael Gann built explosive devices, stored them on a rooftop in SoHo, and threw one onto subway tracks—putting countless lives at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton of the Southern District of New York. “Thanks to swift work by our law enforcement partners, no one was harmed. That vigilance assuredly prevented a tragedy in New York.”
🚇 Devices Discovered on Rooftops and Subway Bridge
Authorities say Gann threw one IED onto the subway tracks of the Williamsburg Bridge, and hid several others on rooftops throughout Manhattan, including in SoHo and Inwood. The devices reportedly contained components capable of serious harm or mass casualties.
On June 5, Gann was arrested while carrying yet another explosive device—just hours after posting a cryptic Instagram message:
“Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow?”
👮 Inter-Agency Response Credited with Preventing Mass Casualty Event
FBI Assistant Director Christopher Raia praised the rapid collaboration between local and federal agencies, stating that their coordinated effort “likely saved lives” and neutralized the threat before disaster struck.
⚖️ Legal Fallout and Maximum Penalty
Gann is now facing multiple federal charges and, if convicted, could spend up to 40 years behind bars. The case is being spearheaded by the U.S. Attorney’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit, underscoring the high-level national threat posed by the suspect.
Investigations are ongoing to determine Gann’s motives, online activity, and whether he acted alone or was influenced by any extremist ideology.
