PEN ARGYL, Pa. – Authorities arrested one man and issued a warrant for another for allegedly setting off explosions in the early-morning hours Saturday in the borough.
According to the Northampton County District Attorney's Office, charged are Joseph Zanette, 57, and Justin Taylor, 32, both of Pen Argyl.
- One of the suspects was arrested and a warrant was issued for the other, police said
- The explosions occurred in the early-morning hours Saturday, March 18
- Authorities said they seized several fireworks found during home searches
The explosions shook homes, alarmed residents and occurred shortly after 3 a.m. Saturday, authorities said.
Zanette is being held in Northampton County Prison with bail set at $125,000; an arrest warrant is active for Taylor, according to the DA's statement.
Zanette and Taylor by LVNewsdotcom on Scribd
Each faces charges of arson endangering property, possession of explosive material, risking catastrophe and recklessly endangering another person, District Attorney Terry Houck said in the release Monday.
As the result of a search warrant for residences of both of the accused, police seized various items, including but not limited to: one white PVD cylindrical pipe with burnt explosive debris; 12 mortar cakes with 25 rounds each; two large mortar cakes with 100 rounds each; one 144-pack of bottle rockets; 66 roman candles; and equipment related to fireworks and explosive materials, according to the statement.
After his arrest, Zanette allegedly admitted to setting off explosions in a residential area less than 150 feet from a residential occupied structure.
Authorities said he also told police he ignited the explosives with Taylor, and he had been drinking when he caused the explosions.
