Arrests Made In Detonation Of Homemade Bombs In Fairfield: Police

FAIRFIELD, CT — Two Fairfield men have been arrested in connection with the detonation of "homemade explosive devices" in town last month.

Nathaniel Lennon, 19, and Daniel Calarco, 18, both surrendered to Fairfield police this week, and were charged with two counts of first-degree reckless endangerment and first-degree breach of peace.

According to police, the two were responsible for detonating three bombs in a secluded area in the Pine Creek Marsh in Fairfield on Dec. 1.

Fairfield police were alerted to the incident by an area hospital, which was treating a man for "significant hand injuries" from an explosion.

"A subsequent investigation by our Patrol Division, Detective Bureau, FBI, and Stamford Police Department Bomb Squad revealed that the individuals had constructed four devices using materials purchased online and at retail locations," said Fairfield Police Sgt. Jenna Wellington in a statement. "The devices were later transported to a secluded area in the Pine Creek Marsh where they attempted to detonate them. Two devices were successfully detonated, but the third device exploded prematurely, causing the injuries. The fourth was located at the Pine Creek Marsh and appropriately destroyed by the Stamford Police Bomb Squad."

Wellington declined to name which of the two suspects suffered the hand injuries.

"We are not disclosing specific details about the individual's injuries to respect their privacy," Wellington told Patch. "Our focus remains on the overall safety of Fairfield residents, and to remind everyone that homemade explosives are incredibly dangerous and pose a threat to both the creators and the community."

Fairfield police detectives, with assistance from federal and local authorities, and in consultation with the Connecticut State's Attorney's Office, obtained arrest warrants for Lennon and Calarco, which led to this week's charges.

Both were released after each posted $10,000 bonds, with Lennon scheduled to appear in Bridgeport Superior Court on Jan. 21, and Calarco scheduled to appear on Jan. 24.

"[These arrests highlight] our ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our community," Wellington reiterated. "The Fairfield Police Department is grateful for the invaluable assistance provided by the FBI and the Stamford Police Department Bomb Squad. Their expertise and collaboration were instrumental in resolving this case safely and effectively.

"We also want to take this opportunity to remind the public of the serious dangers associated with creating homemade explosive devices. These devices pose a significant risk not only to those handling them, but also to the broader community. We urge everyone to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately to prevent potential harm."