Explosives, 'Ghost' Gun Parts Seized In Salem Search, Witch City Man Arraigned On Weapons Charges

SALEM, MA — A Salem man is facing assault weapon and explosives charges after the Essex County District Attorney's Office said illegal "ghost" gun parts, flash powder, fuels, and oxidizers were found during a search of his Harbor Street apartment on Monday.

Patrick Gordon, 42, was arraigned in Salem District Court on Tuesday on charges of possession of an incendiary device and possession of an assault weapon. His bail was set at $100,000. His next court hearing will be on Jan. 20.

State Police accused Gordon of having ordered and shipped large capacity magazines to his mother's home in Bedford, NH , earlier this month. MSP said Gordon does not have a license to carry or a firearm identification card.

MSP said an investigation determined that he had also ordered several gun-related items and a kit that can create four pounds of the explosive compound thermite to his Harbor Street home.

On Monday, Harbor Street was closed to traffic as State Police conducted a search warrant search that they said discovered several gun parts commonly used in assault rifles and a 3D printer that the Essex DA's Office said Gordon used to manufacture "ghost" —untraceable — guns.

Investigators said they also seized fuels and oxidizers that, when used alone or in combination, could be used to make explosive devices, as well as flash powder — a highly energetic pyrotechnic mixture commonly associated with fireworks.

Flash powder is very sensitive to heat, shock, static electricity, and friction, and is illegal to possess in any amount.

MSP's Bomb Squad and Salem Police Department provided substantial assistance with the investigation.