Update: State Police evacuate street in Horseheads during hazardous materials search

HORSEHEADS, NY (WBNG) -- According to the New York State Police, its Bomb Disposal Unit and Contaminated Crime Scene Emergency Response Team cleared out a resident located at 207 South Main St. in the village of Horseheads on Sunday as a result of possible hazardous materials.

According to State Police, on Nov. 6, a Veteran Highway Department employee rendered 911 services to Merka Road in the town of Veteran for a possible found explosive. Members of the Police Bomb Disposal Unit and FBI responded and made the explosive safe.

Over the next week, State Police diligently investigated numerous leads by interviewing neighbors and seeking information from companies across the United States. These efforts yielded a possible suspect, Michael P. Hilliard, age 43.

On Nov. 11, Hilliard was arrested and charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the first degree; a class B felony. He was arraigned and taken to Chemung County Jail.

On Nov. 12, the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation executed a search warrant at Hilliard’s residence at 207 South Main St. in the village of Horseheads.

The New York State Police Bomb Disposal Unit, Contaminated Crime Scene Emergency Response Team and Forensic Identification Unit located several suspicious hazardous materials inside the residence.

According to State Police, the immediate surrounding area of the residence has been evacuated for safety concerns until the suspect’s residence is cleared of all hazards to the public.

State Police are working with the FBI for the disposal of all hazards. East Franklin Street to Broad Street will be closed to the public until further notice. The public should remain clear of the area while the scene is processed.

This is an active investigation. Stay with 12 News for additional information.