SALEM — A 30-year-old man from Grant, Michigan has been arrested and charged with possession of explosives with unlawful intent, following an investigation linking him to a planned attack on the Satanic Temple in Salem, authorities announced Friday.
Luke Isaac Terpstra was taken into custody by the Grant Police Department on Jan. 2 after an extensive investigation revealed his intention to target the religious institution.
Michigan State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are now actively involved in the case, which is still under investigation.
Officials disclosed that Terpstra had traveled to Salem in November, possibly to conduct planning for his alleged plot.
However, there is no current evidence to suggest that he had local support or was working with any accomplices in the area.
The City of Salem, along with the Salem Police Department, expressed their relief and gratitude for the successful interception of the potential attack, while also acknowledging the unsettling reality of such threats.
In response, Salem has reinforced its commitment to public safety by maintaining a presence on the Joint Terrorist Task Force, employing an explosive ordinance detection canine, participating with the Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council, training officers for potential attacks, and equipping police vehicles with additional armor.
Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo and Police Chief Lucas Miller stressed the importance of public vigilance and immediate reporting of any suspicious activities or threats to the authorities.
They also reassured the community that the police department will continue to patrol sensitive areas, investigate criminal activities, and collaborate with law enforcement partners to ensure the safety of Salem’s residents and visitors.
