Two men from Georgia are behind bars after being charged with having a large number of homemade explosive devices. The arrests took place in mid-July, following a police search at the home of Steven M. Gray, 64, in Rome, Georgia. Daryl Stamey Sr., 56, was also arrested in connection with the case.
Authorities acted after receiving a tip and securing a search warrant. Police found more than 20 explosive devices made at Gray’s residence. Additional bombs and materials used to make explosives were safely taken away by officers. The explosives were later detonated by experts at a secure site to prevent any danger to the public.
This case started to unravel when a stolen car was discovered at a scrapyard, leading investigators to Gray’s home. Both men were denied bond and remain in Floyd County jail as the investigation continues.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office, Rome Police, Floyd County Police, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are all involved in the ongoing case. Officials have not revealed what the men intended to do with the explosives.
Homemade bombs pose a serious threat. For example, in 2020, a man set off a van loaded with explosives in downtown Nashville. That blast damaged over 60 buildings and sparked many insurance claims, some still unresolved years later.
For now, authorities are focused on uncovering the full details of this case and making sure the community stays safe.