$2K reward offered in Salem Township lawnmower bombing case as suspect remains at large
Salem Township, PA – A $2,000 cash reward is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of a man accused of rigging a lawnmower with an improvised explosive device in an attempted homicide last month in Westmoreland County.
The Pennsylvania State Police Troop A – Kiski Valley is investigating the July 20 explosion that occurred at 7901 State Route 22 in Salem Township. According to investigators, a male victim reported that as he started his zero-turn mower, the machine detonated. He survived the blast.
Forensic analysis determined the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device. Police identified James Sever, 54, a former tenant at the property, as the suspect. An arrest warrant has been issued for Sever on a long list of charges including attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and possession of weapons of mass destruction.
Sever is described as potentially dangerous and possibly operating a dark blue e-bike. Police say he may be hiding in wooded areas or in the regions of New Alexandria, Derry Township, West Newton, or Kane. His vehicle has been seized.
The warrant, filed under docket number MJ-10305CR-0000112-2025, includes multiple felonies and misdemeanors: criminal attempt – criminal homicide, aggravated assault, risking catastrophe, and unlawful possession or manufacturing of weapons of mass destruction.
Anyone with information on Sever’s whereabouts is urged to contact PSP Kiski Valley at 724-697-5780, call 911, or submit a tip online at p3tips.com. Tips can remain anonymous, and individuals may be eligible for the $2,000 reward if their information leads to an arrest or helps solve the case.
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Key Points
- Man injured in Salem Township after mower explosion caused by IED on July 20
- Former tenant James Sever wanted for attempted homicide and weapons-related charges
- $2,000 cash reward offered for information that leads to his arrest