Monmouth Junction Man and Father Arrested for Causing Explosion at Manville Fourth of July Party

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ - A Monmouth Junction man was arrested alongside his father for causing damage and injuries at a Fourth of July party in Manville, according to authorities. Erich Kaiser, age 28, from Monmouth Junction, and his father, Thomas Kaiser, age 60, from South Plainfield, were charged with Aggravated Assault, Possession of Explosive Device, and three counts of Criminal Mischief, according to Manville Police.

Authorities say they responded to an explosion at a party in the Valley section of Manville on Saturday, July 6, at 8:15 PM. Manville Police arrived at the scene along with EMTs and the New Jersey State Police Bomb Squad, according to a press release.

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Medical personnel treated a thirty-four-year-old Manville man for lower torso injuries, and he was airlifted to a New Brunswick Trauma Hospital. The identity of the victim and his current condition have not been made public at this time.

Investigators say the father and son attempted to set off a signal cannon, which created a large boom and smoke cloud when ignited. The device exploded and sent shrapnel throughout the neighborhood, causing damage to several homes and vehicles, according to Manville Police.

Authorities say the father and son were released pending a first appearance in Somerset County Superior Court. Anyone with information is asked to contact The Manville Police Department at (908) 725-1900 or the Manville Police Tips Line at (908) 725-1900 Ext. 3 to provide information anonymously.

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