Suspect arrested for ‘pipe bomb’ discharge exposing Putnam deputy to substance has been identified

ActionNewsJax.com News Staff
·2 min read
1

The man arrested in connection to a ‘pipe bomb’ that discharged chlorine and brake fluid on a Putnam County Deputy has been identified as additional charges have been filed.

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Charles Legault, 60, Crescent City, was stopped for a traffic violation on Fri., April 5 at the intersection of Moseley Avenue and U.S. 17 in Palatka. Sgt. Ryan Owens was searching the vehicle when a makeshift “pipe bomb” discharged, releasing a white substance on Owens. It was later determined to be chlorine and brake fluid cleaner.

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Action News Jax told you that Owens’ vest took a bulk of the shrapnel that flew during the explosion. He was left with the powder on his face as he breathed it in. Owens was sent to the hospital for several hours and went through extensive testing. He was able to make a full recovery.

On Thursday, PCSO released a statement that said after Legault’s truck was deemed safe by the bomb squad, investigators found 30 grams of methamphetamines. Some of his charges include intent to sell, possession of a suppressor during the commission of a felony, maintaining a drug vehicle, and armed trafficking of methamphetamine with a firearm.

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On Wed., April 10, the sheriff’s office obtained a search warrant to search Legault’s home.

“Out of an abundance of caution a request was made for the St. John’s Sheriff’s Office bomb squad and St. John’s Fire-Rescue Hazardous material team,” PCSO said.

During the search, deputies found Patrick McGregor, 65, at the home. Large amounts of methamphetamine as well as firearms and ammunition were also uncovered. The sheriff’s office confirmed that no additional homemade devices or bomb-making items were at the location.

McGregor, who’s a previously convicted felon, was arrested and taken to the Putnam County Jail. No bail was set.

A second suspect, Patrick McGregor, 64, was arrested at Charles Legault's home during a search of the property.
A second suspect, Patrick McGregor, 64, was arrested at Charles Legault's home during a search of the property.

Legault is already being held at the Putnam County jail without bond.

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