The serenity of one of the most rural parts of southeastern Pennsylvania has been shattered over the past two months, and many questions why are being asked.
In addition to local police, federal and state law enforcement agencies are now investigating more than 20 mysterious explosions that have occurred in the early morning hours in the Upper Bucks County area since April 2, Pennsylvania State Police announced in a news release Tuesday afternoon.
Police said the explosions of unknown origin–which have also been heard in parts of Lehigh County–are occurring between the hours of 1 and 4:30 a.m.
Law enforcement authorities have not publicly speculated on what the source of the explosions may be, but in comments on social media many residents have speculated on what or who is causing them, with theories ranging from fireworks to stolen explosives to an underground meth lab.
“Our local, state and federal law enforcement agencies all take these events very seriously and are working diligently to protect the citizens of our community,” the news release from Troop M (Bethlehem) Commanding Officer Capt. Richard H. D’Ambrosio said. “Keeping everyone safe is our priority.”
Police said that there have been no injuries reported as a result of the explosions but acknowledged that there is the possibility someone could be hurt in the future, if the source isn’t identified.
“We are attempting to prevent someone from accidentally getting injured by these explosions, including the individual responsible,” D’Ambrosio said.
“These events disrupt emergency response personnel from their normal course of duty, straining local resources and impeding emergency personnel from responding to other calls for service,” he added.
Residents of the are are being asked to remain vigilant and to pay attention to people and events taking place around them.
“Regardless of how insignificant you think your tip may be, we strongly encourage you to come forward with your information,” police said.
Anonymous tips may be submitted by calling Lehigh Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-426-TIPS or Trooper Jordan Houck at the Pennsylvania State Police Dublin barracks at 215-249-9191.
A sign along Springtown Hill Road at the border between Lower Saucon Township, Northampton County, and Springfield Township, Bucks County, warns criminals to “beware” because of the township’s town watch. In spite of that watchfulness, to date investigators have been unable to identify a source or sources for the mysterious explosions that began April 2.