3 dead after car explosion; perpetrator ‘probably killed’
ALLENTOWN, Pa. — A car explosion that rocked downtown Allentown left three males dead, including the likely “perpetrator,” officials said Sunday as federal authorities who are leading the investigation looked ahead to autopsies.
“We know there’s been a criminal incident,” District Attorney James Martin told reporters at a news conference Sunday. “We have a high degree of confidence that the perpetrator was probably killed in the incident.”
Authorities released no information about the possible cause of Saturday night’s blast, including whether it was a bomb, but Mr. Martin said, “Loads of us in law enforcement” are confident “this was A., an isolated incident and B., there’s no continuing threat.”
Authorities are seeking the public’s help in getting clues and asked anyone with information to call the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, which is leading the investigation.
The blast occurred a block from the PPL Center sports arena and two blocks from the popular Hamilton Street dining area in Allentown, a city of about 120,000 about 60 miles northwest of Philadelphia. The block where it occurred is a mixture of residences and small businesses, including a restaurant and a bar.
The FBI, state police, and city and county authorities are investigating along with the ATF.
Resident Carlos Perodin told The Morning Call of Allentown that he was watching a movie with his wife when he heard a thunderous explosion and went to the scene.
“The fire was crazy,” he said. “The car was pretty much split in half.”
Another witness to the aftermath of the explosion, Stephanie Connelly, told The Morning Call that she saw body parts strewn across the street.
“This is real life, and I’m shaking and freaking out while I’m running,” she said.
Autopsies were planned Monday on the three males found dead after the 9:30 p.m. explosion, Lehigh County coroner Scott Grim said Sunday afternoon.