Suspicious Device Found Outside Police Precinct in East Harlem
Investigation Underway
Authorities are continuing to investigate a suspicious device discovered amid a bizarre series of events that unfolded outside a police precinct in Manhattan’s East Harlem neighborhood a day ago, investigators said Thursday.
Incident Details
The device was discovered in the vehicle of a man who, along with his cousin, approached uniformed officers outside the East Harlem stationhouse on 119th Street near Park Avenue around lunchtime. The man told cops he was the victim of a domestic assault inside the van, at the hands of his cousin, and had been hit with a machete. The machete was recovered from the vehicle, and that’s when the driver informed police of the device, officials say.
Device Description
The device was described by police as a "potentially viable improvised explosive device" that, if real, was "capable of causing death or serious injury to anyone in proximity and property damage." Investigators said Thursday that the device was operative and contained gunpowder inside.
Response and Aftermath
A neighborhood lockdown was ordered as a precaution. The device was taken to Rodman’s Neck for disassembly. The driver suffered a bleeding bruise to the back of the head from the machete hit, authorities say. No other injuries were reported. According to police, the alleged attacker was incoherently rambling and may have emotional issues.
Arrest and Charges
One of the men in the car was arrested Thursday and charged. Chontrell Wrenick faces multiple charges of weapon possession and reckless endangerment. He was awaiting arraignment Thursday night.
Investigation Ongoing
Police are now investigating why the device was in the vehicle and where it was built. Deputy Chief Jason Huerta of the department’s Counterterrorism Division said, "We don’t have any reason to believe that he was headed anywhere specifically."
Background on Individuals Involved
The two cousins involved in the incident each have 10 to 20 prior arrests, with no recent ones in the last few years, authorities say. They described the charges they did face previously as "not major."
Conclusion
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to piece together the events that led to the discovery of the suspicious device. As the incident remains under investigation, the community can rest assured that the authorities are taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the nature of the device discovered outside the police precinct?
A: It was a "potentially viable improvised explosive device" capable of causing death or serious injury to anyone in proximity and property damage.
Q: What happened during the incident?
A: A man and his cousin approached police officers at the East Harlem stationhouse, and the man claimed he was a victim of a domestic assault, which led to the discovery of the device.
Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
A: The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the device and the individuals involved.
Q: Have the individuals involved been charged?
A: Yes, one of the men, Chontrell Wrenick, has been charged with multiple counts of weapon possession and reckless endangerment. He is awaiting arraignment.
