BOMBS INTENDED FOR CLAY LAW ENFORCEMENT - Hamm Says "It Exploded On Me"

(08/12/2005)
Clay's multiple explosions last Sunday came from "grenade-like bombs," some of which exploded when a man picking up soda cans opened a box.

The blasts rocked the area, with several reports saying they contained objects like bolts or nails.

There were five or six such devices.

Sterline Lewis with the WV Fire Marshal's office said they were "built to harm or kill law enforcement in Clay County," likely Sheriff Randy Holcomb, although authorities have yet to specify which officer.

Large numbers of law officers and special agents have been in Clay since Sunday, following leads on the case.

Sheriff Holcomb told regional TV yesterday that US Marshals told him not to talk. He is still maintaining his news black-out.

Ronnie Hamm of Clay, speaking to TV cameras, said he was out in the woods near the Town of Clay when he opened a box and "it exploded on me." He received some injuries to his leg and hand.

"We know for whom the bombs were intended," said a state Fire Marshal.

Authorities said arrests are pending, the State Fire Marshal saying "we have a suspect."

See earlier Herald stories on Clay explosions.

More info at www.claywestvirginia.com