According to a report from Courier-Journal, Lousiville (KY) Mayor Craig Greenberg declared a state of emergency as Metro Code Enforcement personnel move to demolish the home and garage of Marc Hibel, 53, a Highview resident who was in the process of making homemade explosives.
Hibel, 53, was arrested last week by the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) and charged with first-degree wanton endangerment, with further charges pending.
Hibel is a chemist by trade and admitted to possessing “laboratory-grade equipment and chemicals,” according to the arrest citation. He currently remains in custody.
No date has been set for the controlled burn, which will take place in the 6200 block of Applegate Lane, but Greenberg said it will not happen until neighborhood residents are informed as to it date and time. A community meeting is currently being planned.
LMPD Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel said that, without tips from citizens with the actions of the LMPD and FBI, a “catastrophic event” could have occurred.
Because the home is considered a “hoarder house,” officials in protective gear would not have been able to safely the move around to remove its materials, which makes the controlled burn necessary.
On Thursday, July 27, Hibel brought undercover LMPD agents into his home to show them the explosive devices. Some of them contained TNT, according to his arrest records. He also admitted to having TNP, also known as picric acid, which can be highly explosive. The picric acid has already been disposed of.
Hibel also told officials he had previously made homemade explosives.
On Friday, July 28, bomb squad technicians and detectives arrived at Hibel’s residence to perform a “controlled detonation of a device,” which posed no threat to the public.
Greenberg said he is not sure if area residents will need to evacuate prior to the demolition and controlled burn. If evacuations are necessary, the city will provide a shelter with air-conditioning, water, and food.
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