Panama City man accused of tossing bombs at Brevard residences

A 24-year-old Panama City man who police said used chemical bombs to attack the homes of his ex-girlfriend and another friend, is being held at the Brevard County jail on a $100,000 bond.

Michael Patrick Aaberg was arrested at 9:50 a.m. Monday in Cocoa. Aaberg was charged with one felony count of making and throwing a destructive device, according to police reports.

Palm Bay police issued a warrant for Aaberg’s arrest after being called to investigate reports of chemical bombs being used to target a woman’s residence on Dateland Road in Palm Bay.

“He threw a couple chemical bombs at his ex-girlfriend’s house and then they went up to Rockledge to his buddy’s house and threw a couple chemical bombs,” said Lt. Mike Bandish, spokesman for the Palm Bay Police Department.

Bandish said the bomb was a tin foil, pressurized chemical bomb made from a water bottle. These home-made explosives typically rely on a toilet cleaner, like Drano, and the aluminum to create the strong chemical base, he said.

Police said Aaberg is accused of throwing two bombs at his ex-girlfriend's house. An occupant of the home walked outside after the first chemical bomb exploded and was nearly hit by the second, according to Bandish.

"The strong base or alkaloid is like acid,” Bandish said, “it can cause severe damage to the skin and eyes.”

No injuries were reported.

The occupant of Aaberg’s ex-girlfriend’s home saw a white Ford Ranger driving away from the scene. Aaberg’s ex-girlfriend identified the vehicle as Aaberg’s.

Police continue to investigate the case.