File photo of CSX coal trains (Photo by Luke Sharrett/Getty Images)
DETROIT, Mich. (April 22, 2016) – Federal law enforcement investigators are searching at least three states for more than 500 pounds of explosives stolen from a CSX train, reports CBS News.
Sources say the theft was reported Wednesday.
The CSX train was traveling from Chicago through Ohio en route to Detroit. According CSX, the train passed through northern Indiana.
Somewhere along the way, investigators believe the explosives were stolen. According to a law enforcement source, half of the shipment of explosives was missing when the train car arrived in Detroit.
A law enforcement source says the amount stolen has authorities concerned that the explosives could fall into the wrong hands. The ATF is considering putting out an advisory and announcing a reward in the coming days.
A spokesman for the ATF in Detroit called this a very serious case. Technically the explosives are classified as fireworks, but because they are commercial grade combined with the quantity makes them extremely dangerous. The ATF says they are a lot more volatile and typically only handled by professionals.
Investigators believe at least 32 cases of the explosives are missing. The ATF’s Detroit office is leading the investigation with assistance from Detroit Police. Investigators believe that several suspects are likely responsible for the theft.
ATF has asked anyone who may have information about these stolen fireworks to call 313-202-3400.
