A Flat Rock man, Steven Marchbanks, has admitted guilt in a case involving the illegal transportation and receipt of an explosive device. This announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Julie Beck, alongside James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Detroit Field Division.
Marchbanks, aged 58, also confessed to being a felon unlawfully possessing firearms. The investigation stemmed from a home explosion in River Rouge, Michigan, in June 2024. On that occasion, Marchbanks acquired an illegal explosive device believed to be an M-80 from an unidentified person and brought it to a residence where he left it with two children. One child triggered the device, leading to severe injuries and damage to the property. A subsequent search of Marchbanks' home uncovered two firearms belonging to him despite his prior felony convictions prohibiting firearm possession.
Acting U.S. Attorney Beck commented on the case's severity: “The facts of this case show the danger that illegal explosive devices pose to our community. Tragically, this defendant’s actions caused devastating injuries to minor children.”
Special Agent James Deir remarked on the incident's gravity: “The allegations in this case represent the most horrific unintended consequences associated with poor choices... In a millisecond, a young child’s life was changed forever.” He added that Marchbanks will have time behind bars "to reflect on how his poor decision-making caused serious injuries."
Marchbanks is scheduled for sentencing on July 15, 2025. He could face up to 10 years for transporting and receiving explosives without a license and up to 15 years for possessing firearms as a felon.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation with help from River Rouge Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nhan Ho is prosecuting.