Police find backyard tunnel, seize explosive materials in Stamford

STAMFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- Police officers thought it was a routine raid to investigate blight but they found much more in a Stamford home. Investigators have seized guns and explosives but the homeowner isn't facing any charges just yet.

Stamford police searched a home at 172 Vine Road on Wednesday. They had initially stopped by the house to look into potential blight and residential code violations but what they found inside led them to call in the bomb squad and the FBI.

They became suspicious after finding shotguns by some doors and windows and chemicals and other materials that could be used to make bombs.

"This is an unusual occurrence we don't come across this commonly," said Capt. Brian McElligott, Stamford Police.

Police say the homeowner had dug a tunnel in the backyard that contained chemicals and other possible bomb-making materials. They also say he had a sophisticated security system overlooking the property.

"Were you worried that the homeowner was going to set something off or do something in that neighborhood," asked News 8's Ali Reed.

"I don't know what the individual's mindset was or if there were plans to do anything with it at this point but it would certainly be a concern of the police department," said Capt. McElligott.

They seized all the items, including the legally-owned guns. The homeowner was not arrested. The state crime lab has to identify the chemicals.

Just a few hundred feet away from the house is a middle school and right across the street is a public library. Residents in the neighborhood and people who frequent the library tell News 8 they were shocked when they they heard this news.

"It was scary because when we drove by I thought, oh my gosh, what's going on in this area," said Sandra, who visits the library frequently.

"Now when you're talking about guns by the windows and stuff I mean that's more than just suspicion, there's something really weird going on," said Susan Baldwin the library branch manager.

Police say residents are safe now but it could have been a serious threat.

"The items seized could be put together to create an explosion with damaging effect," said Capt. McElligott.

Police say they also found what appeared to be white supremist materials inside that home. Police are still investigating.