Pennsylvania authorities did not see double when they arrested twin brothers after they allegedly set off a series of explosions that destroyed multiple buildings across two counties.
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office announced the arrest of Daniel and Caleb Tate, 22, who used improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in five different locations between 20 December and 31 December.
“We live in a world where the thought of bombs exploding around us is a very real fear,” District Attorney Tom Hogan said in a press release. “These defendants brought that fear to our region during a two-week crime spree where they detonated multiple IEDs.”
The twins face charges of arson by explosion, arson by possession of explosive devices, conspiracy, theft, among others.
Pennsylvania State Police investigated the explosions alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), and found video evidence of the suspects allegedly shoplifting materials to make the IEDs. Investigators found materials charged to one of the brothers’ bank cards.
The DA said the bombs were constructed from using materials like metal pipes, fueld containers, propane canisters, and propane torch tips. Although the explosions could have been deadly, no injuries were reported, as the IEDs were set off during early morning hours according to the statement.
Among the destroyed property a mailbox, a phone shed used by Amish families, an Amish produce shed, and a well pump shed.
“Improvised explosive devices are not harmless firecrackers,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. “They are dangerous, destructive, and can be very deadly.”
The twins were reportedly home from college for the holidays. Daniel Tate attends Pepperdine University in California; Caleb Tate is a student at Belmont University in Tennessee.
Pennsylvania State Police and the ATF are still investigating the incidents.
