Sitka man charged in pipe bomb case

Zachary Loewen, 28, of Sitka, was scheduled for arraignment in Anchorage on Oct. 25, after being indicted on federal charges alleging he illegally constructed and possessed a pipe bomb.

U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder said the indictment further alleges that on Oct. 14 that Loewen knowingly received and possessed a combination of parts intended for construction of pipe bombs.

According to state court documents, Loewen began purchasing materials for construction of a pipe bomb after failed attempts to purchase a firearm, due to prior felony convictions. Then on Oct. 4, Loewen allegedly attempted to ignite the bomb with a candlewick fuse, but abandoned the explosive device after failed ignition.

Loewen had two prior felony convictions in Washington state, so he was prohibited from possessing explosives.

If convicted, Loewen faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years on each count, plus a fine of up to $250,000.

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