A Salem man was recently charged with possession of explosive materials and weapons.
Patrick Gordon, 42, of Salem was arrested following an investigation by the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office and the Massachusetts State Police.
On December 15, State Police were alerted to Gordon's purchase. Officials say Gordon had high-capacity magazines delivered to his mother's home in Bedford, New Hampshire. When investigators looked into that information, they discovered Gordon also ordered firearms-related items and thermite to his Salem apartment, officials said.
Gordon does not have a valid license to carry a firearm or a firearms identification card, according to the attorney general's office.
According to the Attorney General's Office, officials executed a search warrant at Gordon's apartment on Dec. 22. During a search of the apartment, officials found firearms parts often used in assault rifles, as well as a 3D printer that the attorney general's office said Gordon used to make the ghost gun, officials said.
During the search, investigators also found items that could be used to make explosive devices.
“Investigators seized large quantities of fuels and oxidizers that, when used alone or in combination, can be used to make destructive or incendiary devices. Investigators also found an unknown amount of fire extinguishing powder, a high-energy pyrotechnic mixture commonly associated with fireworks that burns quickly and produces a sudden, bright flash,” the attorney general said.
Possession of the powder in any quantity is prohibited, officials said.
Photo credit: Massachusetts Attorney General's Office.
Gordon was arraigned in Salem District Court on charges of possession of an incendiary device as well as possession of an assault weapon. Bail was set at $100.00.
Gordon's next court date is January 20, 2026.
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