Kenner police says they’ve arrested 18-year-old Devin Staehle after a search of his home found what they called a ‘significant quantity’ of explosive materials.
Investigators say since October last year, neighbors complained of loud explosions heard in one Kenner neighborhood.
They say it was hard for officers to pinpoint where the explosions were coming from until a Crimestoppers tip led investigators to Staehle’s home. Police say through their investigation they determined a large amount of combustible chemicals were shipped to Staehle’s home.
A search warrant was executed at Staehle’s home and several packages of a variety of chemical compounds were found according to Kenner police.
When mixed these compounds can be used to create flash powder and gun powder. Both powders are used in explosives.
Staehle cooperated with the investigation and authorities say he admitted he would manufacture fireworks and explosive devices to either sell them or detonate them near the levee in Kenner.
Staehle is not a licensed fireworks manufacturer. There have been no reports of property damage or injury related to the explosions.