Controlled Detonations Rock Floyd County After Explosives Confiscated

ROME, GA – The Floyd County Bomb Team moved swiftly on Wednesday evening, July 16, to safely detonate a significant quantity of unstable explosives confiscated during an investigation. The controlled detonations, which caused loud noises reported across the county, were deemed the safest method for dealing with the hazardous materials.

Police quickly realized the confiscated explosives were highly sensitive and, due to their sheer volume, could not be safely stored. Experts in the bomb squad determined that controlled detonation in a secure environment was the necessary course of action.

“Our bomb techs are trained to render safe a variety of devices and respond to suspicious items and hazardous materials,” said FCPD Capt. Ron Hunton, head of the Floyd County Bomb Squad.

Daryl Stamey Sr., 56, and Steven Gray, 64, have been arrested in connection with the manufacturing and possession of explosive devices.

According to Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King, investigators received a tip and obtained a search warrant for Steven Gray’s residence, where the devices were reportedly being manufactured. Authorities located additional explosive devices and manufacturing materials, which were disarmed and removed from the residence. Steven Gray was arrested and charged with 23 counts of manufacturing explosive devices.

The broader investigation began earlier, on July 15. “At approximately 9:04 a.m. on July 15, the Rome Police Department executed an unrelated search warrant at a commercial facility on Hull Avenue,” King stated. “Upon discovering homemade explosive devices at the facility, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Floyd County Police Department and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were called in to provide additional assistance.”

While the noise from the Wednesday evening detonations was widely reported, officials assured the public that there was no danger. “We realize the noise was disturbing but at no time was the public in any danger,” said Floyd County Police Chief Mark Wallace.

Chief Wallace acknowledged that while alerts were sent out via social media and the Code Red app, the police department plans to improve its communication strategies for future incidents of this nature. Residents are encouraged to download either the Code Red app or the Floyd County GA Police Dept app to receive emergency communications.

The ongoing investigation is a joint effort involving the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Rome Police Department, the Floyd County Police Department, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.