The incident at Lehigh Valley International Airport earlier this week has sparked shock and concern in the aviation industry, as a Pennsylvania man checked in a suitcase containing an explosive device. Marc Muffley, 40, is now facing federal charges after the suitcase was discovered to contain a “circular compound” encased in a wax-like paper and clear plastic wrap, as well as a “quick fuse” and “hobby fuse”.
The device was found during security screening, and an FBI bomb technician determined that it contained a granular powder consistent with a “commercial grade firework” and “suspected to be a mixture of flash powder and the dark granulars that are used in commercial grade fireworks.” Attached to the device were two fuses, and authorities concluded that both the black powder and flash powder “are susceptible to ignite from heat and friction and posed a significant risk to the aircraft and passengers.” Additionally, the suitcase contained a can of butane, a lighter, a pipe with white powder residue, a wireless drill with cordless batteries, and two GFCI outlets taped together with black tape.
Upon further investigation, authorities traced Muffley to a Lansford address and arrested him late Monday night. He remains in custody pending a probable cause hearing and detention hearing Thursday at 1:30 p.m. in Allentown.
The incident has raised serious questions about airport security and whether proper protocols were in place to detect such a potentially dangerous suitcase. It also serves as a reminder of the need for travelers to be mindful of the items they are bringing on board aircrafts, as anything that could be used to create an explosive device is strictly prohibited.
Airport authorities and the Federal Aviation Administration have yet to issue a statement on the incident, but it is likely that a review of security procedures at Lehigh Valley International Airport will be conducted in the near future. With this in mind, travelers should expect additional security measures and restrictions in the coming weeks as the airport works to improve its security protocols.
