NIAGARA FALLS — At approximately 8:40 a.m. Troop T – SP Buffalo Troopers responded to a menacing complaint involving a shotgun. Troopers located the vehicle in question near mile marker 455.1 westbound, in the town of Hanover, Chautauqua County. The suspect pulled over before emergency lights were activated, exited his his vehicle and approached the Trooper which lead to a physical confrontation. The suspect was taken into custody and identified as Jose M. Gandia, 47 of 320 Cedar Ave. Two troopers suffered minor injuries and were transported for treatment.
Several weapons and a suspicious package were located in the vehicle. The State Police Bomb Disposal Unit were called to the scene to assist with the investigation. The suspicious package was a small functioning explosive device. All westbound and eastbound lanes of I-90 between exit 57 and exit 58 were closed until the scene is clear.
Troop A- Bureau of Criminal Investigation located the Gandia’s residence at 320 Cedar Ave. NYSP Bomb Disposal Unit assisted by Special Operations Response Team sent an Unmanned Aerial System into the residence and located possible explosives. Cedar Ave and Third Street were evacuated for safety concerns until the Gandia’s residence is cleared of all hazards to the public.
This is a continuing criminal investigation. The area of Third Street and Cedar Ave. will be closed to the public until further notice. Possible projected time frame is one or two days.
The City of Niagara Falls Police Department and the NYS Park Police are assisting in this incident.
Anyone with information is to contact the NYSP at 585-344-6200.
