HAZLETON, Pa. — Nearly two months after a blast that severely injured one man and damaged several buildings in Schuylkill County, a Hazleton police officer has been charged with the crime.
Ladell Hannon, 31, of Hazleton, was charged Monday with attempted homicide and arson.
State police say Hannon detonated an explosive device outside an apartment building along Center Street in Kelayres in December.
That blast injured Harrison Jordan of Kelayres, who had to be flown to the hospital.
According to troopers, Jordan saw a bucket outside the apartment building with what appeared to be a fuse. He tried to run, but the explosive went off.
Court documents say Hannon admitted being upset that Jordan was dating his estranged wife but denied having anything to do with the blast.
Investigators say several cameras from homes and businesses in the area show Hannon in the area spending time around Jordan's apartment and walking around with the supplies believed to have been used in the explosion.
Police also found tracking devices on both Jordan's and his estranged wife's vehicles. They believe Hannon used to follow them around.
Hannon is a Hazleton police officer and has been suspended without pay from the department since last year when he was charged with breaking into Jordan's home in October.
The Hazleton police chief said there has been no change to Hannon's employment status. Hannon remains locked up.
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