Man Charged in Connection to Weapons at Restaurant: Cops

Police arrested a man in connection to the discovery of grenades, firearms, ammunition and explosive devices at a Wilmington restaurant.

Police have made an arrest in connection to the discovery of what was initially believed to be suspicious items at a Wilmington restaurant.

On Monday The Bomb Squad was called to Madeline’s Restaurant on 6th and North Dupont Street where they spent several hours. Investigators say police determined numerous weapons, ammunition and improvised explosive devices were stored inside the basement of the building. Officers evacuated the restaurant and secured the location.

ATF agents as well as Wilmington Police and Delaware State Police rendered safe the contents of the basement, according to investigators. Police say the seized items included two fully functional improvised hand grenades, materials to construct additional grenades, 36 firearms and over 20,000 rounds of assorted ammunition.

The investigation led to the arrest of Stephen Sparco, 57, of the Ashley Heights development in Wilmington. He is charged with possession of an incendiary device. Sparco was released on $5,000 unsecured bail. The investigation is ongoing.
 


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