SANFORD, Fla. — A Pennsylvania man was arrested for allegedly bringing explosives in his luggage Lehigh Valley International Airport in Pennsylvania before boarding an Allegiant flight to Sanford, according to officials.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
Mark Muffley was arrested at his home and is being charged with possession of an explosive in an airport and possessing, or attempting to place, or attempting to have placed, an explosive or incendiary device on an aircraft, according to the criminal complaint.
Muffley checked in his rolling suitcase at the Allegiant desk. It was screened by TSA and an alarm was set off, alerting the presence of suspicious items, according to the criminal complaint.
READ: Apopka firefighters to announce vote of ‘no confidence’ in fire chief
A physical inspection of the baggage led to a circular compound about 3 inches in diameter that was wrapped in a wax-like paper and clear plastic wrap hidden in the lining of the baggage, among other items, the criminal complaint states.
Officials X-rayed the circular device and found it contained a granular type of powder concealed within the wax paper and plastic wrap, according to the criminal complaint.
READ: Human skull, 30 other bones found at New Smyrna Beach historical site
Attached to the compound was a “quick fuse” and a “hobby fuse.” In addition, investigators found the powder is susceptible to ignite from heat and friction and posed a “significant risk” to the aircraft and passengers, the criminal complaint states.
Inside the luggage, investigators also found a can of butane, a lighter, a pipe with white powder residue, a wireless drill with cordless batteries and two GFCI outlets taped together with black tape.
This browser does not support the video element.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.