(WWJ) A Flat Rock man has taken a plea to felony charges in connection with an explosion that seriously injured 11-year-old twin girls in their River Rouge home last summer.
Acting United States Attorney Julie Beck announced Monday that 58-year-old Steven Marchbanks pleaded guilty to illegally transporting and receiving an explosive device, as well as being a felon in possession of firearms.
According to court documents, in June of 2024, Marchbanks purchased an illegal explosive device, thought to be an M-80, from an unknown person off the street and brought it to the home, where he left it unattended with two children.
One of the kids lit the device, setting off an explosion that caused severe injuries to the children and structural damage to the home.
At the time, reports said one girl lost four fingers, while her sister suffered cuts and burns when they lit the firework in a bathroom, thinking it was a sparkler.
Following an investigation, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Marchbanks’ house and found two guns that belonged to him. Marchbanks had previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses and, as a result, cannot legally possess guns, officials said.
“The facts of this case show the danger that illegal explosive devices pose to our community. Tragically, this defendant’s actions caused devastating injuries to minor children,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Beck in a news release Monday.
“The allegations in this case represent the most horrific unintended consequences associated with poor choices," added Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. "Steven Marchbanks is a repeat offender prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm. Tragically, he chose to leave an unsecured M80 caliber explosive device with children in the home,” said Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “In a millisecond, a youngchild’s life was changed forever. In the end, Mr. Marchbanks will have several years behind bars to reflect on how his poor decision-making caused serious injuries to a child. Illegal fireworks are extremely dangerous and should never be left stored inside of your home.”
Marchbanks faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for transporting and receiving explosive materials without a license, and 15 years in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 15.