Dozens of pipe bombs discovered in suburban NY apartment after neighbors heard loud booms for weeks

Police in White Plains made a shocking discovery when investigating a mysterious explosive found on a quiet street. After weeks of residents hearing thunderous booms, authorities arrested Raymond Elders, 65, on charges including the use of a weapon of mass destruction. Inside his Odell Avenue apartment, police found 25 pipe bombs and materials for making explosives.

The investigation began when an explosive device was spotted near Elders’ doorway, leading to his arrest. The neighborhood had been rattled by loud booms in recent weeks, prompting a response from law enforcement. After a shelter-in-place order was issued, the device was safely rendered inert.

Elders was taken into custody with black and blue residue on his hands and a lighter in his possession. Surveillance footage from March 18 captured him igniting a device in the street before quickly fleeing the scene. Authorities suspect a neighbor dispute may be linked to the hoard of explosives, although a motive has not been officially determined.

During his court appearance, prosecutors described Elders’ actions as “the height of recklessness,” highlighting the potential danger posed by the bombs. His defense lawyer cited addiction issues, and a judge ordered him to be held in federal custody without bail.

Residents in the area expressed relief at the arrest, with one witness reporting hearing multiple loud booms overnight. Another person initially taken into custody is being treated as a witness in the case. White Plains Commissioner of Public Safety Wade Hardy assured residents that there were no explosive materials present in the apartment and that the neighborhood was safe.

The investigation has been turned over to the FBI, although they have not yet provided a comment on the case. The arrest of Elders has brought a sense of security to the community, as they no longer have to fear the mysterious explosions that had plagued their neighborhood.