SALEM TOWNSHIP, PA – A Pennsylvania man already facing attempted homicide and weapons of mass destruction charges for allegedly planting a pipe bomb beneath his former landlord’s lawnmower now stands accused of building and placing a second explosive device on another vehicle, authorities said.
State police announced additional charges against 54-year-old James Sever, who investigators say manufactured both bombs at a property along Route 22 in Salem Township.
Sever, who was captured in Indiana County in September after weeks on the run, remains in custody at the Westmoreland County Prison after being denied bail.
He faces multiple counts including attempted homicide, 17 counts of aggravated assault, 17 counts of reckless endangerment, risking catastrophe, and possessing an instrument of crime.
Investigators link two explosive devices
According to Pennsylvania State Police, the second device was discovered on August 14 along an off-ramp of the Pennsylvania Turnpike near the Irwin interchange after turnpike workers noticed debris resembling a pipe bomb.
The state police Hazardous Device and Explosives Section determined the materials matched components from the earlier July incident, where a pipe bomb was found under a lawnmower in Salem Township.
Both devices reportedly contained the same construction materials — a metal pipe, pipe caps, a six-volt battery, zip ties, and wooden boards marked with similar notches — leading investigators to conclude they were built by the same individual.
Bomb under vehicle put families at risk
After his arrest, Sever allegedly admitted to manufacturing both devices and told police he had placed the second one under a relative’s vehicle.
Investigators later learned the relative was driving a loaner car from a dealership while his own vehicle was being repaired.
Troopers said at least two other families, including children, had used the loaner vehicle before the device was discovered, putting as many as 16 people in danger.
Court proceedings underway in Westmoreland County
Sever’s initial charges from the July incident were held for court earlier this week following a preliminary hearing.
Prosecutors from the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office said the new allegations stem from evidence tying Sever to both explosive devices.
Authorities credited the quick response of turnpike maintenance crews and bomb technicians with preventing further injuries.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is asked to contact Pennsylvania State Police or submit a tip through the Westmoreland County Crimewatch portal.
Sever remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
