Fairfield, CT – Two young men have been arrested after constructing and detonating homemade explosive devices in a secluded area of Fairfield, police confirmed on Wednesday. The incident has drawn attention to the dangers of improvised explosives and the serious legal consequences of such actions.

Nathaniel Lennon, 19, and Daniel Calarco, 18, were charged with multiple offenses, including breach of peace and first-degree reckless endangerment, after a December 1, 2024, incident that left one of the men with significant hand injuries. According to authorities, the pair created four explosive devices using materials purchased online and in retail stores before taking them to the Pine Creek Marsh to test them.

Explosions Lead to Injuries and Investigation

Police report that two of the devices were successfully detonated. However, a third device exploded prematurely, injuring one of the men. The fourth device remained undetonated and was left at the scene. The injured man was later transported to a local hospital for treatment. Hospital staff, recognizing the injuries as potentially related to explosives, alerted law enforcement, triggering a full-scale investigation.

The Fairfield Police Department collaborated with the Stamford Police Bomb Squad and the FBI to secure and dispose of the undetonated device. Investigators also discovered additional explosive materials at a residence on Arbor Drive in Fairfield. Nearby homes were temporarily evacuated as a precaution while the materials were secured.

Charges Filed

Lennon and Calarco, both Fairfield residents, face serious charges for their actions. They were released on bond and are scheduled to appear in Bridgeport Superior Court later this month.

“This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with explosive materials… Such activities endanger not only the individuals involved but also the broader community.”
Fairfield Police Chief Robert Kalamaras said.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation remains active, with authorities seeking additional information to determine if there are other individuals or incidents linked to the case. Residents with any knowledge of related activities are urged to contact the Fairfield Police Department’s Detective Division at (203) 254-4840.

Community Impact

The incident has unsettled the normally quiet community of Fairfield. Local residents expressed concerns about the proximity of such dangerous activities to their homes and families.