Two men plead guilty in connection with Somerset County park explosion that left one injured and caused extensive damage
SOMERVILLE, NJ (Somerset County) – Two men pleaded guilty on Friday in connection with the Cooper Street Park explosion that left one person injured and caused extensive damage in Manville Borough.
Thomas Kaiser, 60, of South Plainfield, pleaded guilty to several charges, including second-degree causing or risking widespread injury or damage, fourth-degree aggravated assault for recklessly causing bodily injury with a deadly weapon, and third-degree criminal mischief. His guilty plea exposes him to a sentence of up to six years in prison. Meanwhile, Erich Kaiser, 29, of Monmouth Junction, pleaded guilty to fourth-degree aggravated assault and third-degree criminal mischief. He is expected to face probation and a suspended 180-day county jail term. Both men must also pay restitution to the victims.
The charges stem from a terrifying incident that occurred around 8:16 p.m. on July 6, 2024, when the men set off a homemade explosive device in Cooper Street Park. Thomas Kaiser brought the device, which consisted of a metal tube filled with explosive powder, while Erich Kaiser placed the device in an isolated area of the park and ignited the fuse.
The resulting explosion sent metal shards flying in all directions, one of which struck a 34-year-old male victim, severely injuring him. Shrapnel from the explosion also damaged multiple homes and vehicles in the vicinity.
The incident prompted a response from local law enforcement and emergency responders. The Manville Borough Police Department, the New Jersey State Police Bomb Squad, and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted a thorough investigation that led to the identification of the men.
Both men are scheduled to be sentenced on May 23.
