The Millcreek Township Police Department has successfully identified the source of recent loud explosions that have been alarming residents in the area. For several days, locals reported hearing powerful booms, particularly in the vicinity of West 17th Street near Filmore Avenue. The police surmised the sounds were likely due to mortar-style fireworks or some form of explosives, prompted by reports of smoke observed in nearby streets. In an effort to quell community concerns, the police utilized their Facebook platform to inform residents about their ongoing investigation and to ask for information from anyone who might have experienced property damage due to the blasts.
The intensity of these explosions was notable, with reports indicating that they generated vibrations strong enough to shake both homes and vehicles. Millcreek Police Chief Carter Mook confirmed this alarming observation, with an officer on patrol even feeling the force of one of the blasts. In their updates, police emphasized that these incidents were not related to any scheduled military or police training exercises, nor were they associated with the township’s SWAT Team activities at the former Bel-Aire Hotel site, which is slated for future demolition.
On Thursday morning, the mystery began to unravel when an anonymous tip received through the department’s Tip411 system led officers to a potential source of the explosions. This investigation took them to the 1600 block of Lowell Avenue, where officers interviewed a suspect believed to be responsible for the disturbances. The individual admitted to using firework-type explosives, which were confirmed to be legally owned due to a permit issued by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
However, despite having the correct permits, the individual learned that detonating such explosives in the township was illegal. Police Chief Mook reported that the responsible party received a stern warning about the illegalities surrounding the use of fireworks in that specific area, though the investigation remains open. Authorities continue to assess whether any property damage was incurred due to the explosions, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring residents’ safety and maintaining peace within the township.
Residents who have experienced any kind of damage as a result of the blasts are being urged to come forward and report their experiences to the Millcreek Police Department. The department has made available a contact number for residents to utilize, ensuring that any complaints or damages are documented and taken into consideration during ongoing investigations.
In summary, while the immediate threat posed by the explosions has been addressed, the Millcreek Township Police Department is working diligently to both resolve any outstanding damage claims and prevent similar incidents in the future. The proactive approach taken by the police, including public outreach and the establishment of communication channels for tips, showcases their commitment to community safety and engagement. As this situation unfolds, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any further disturbances.