HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WENY) -- Hazardous materials were found Sunday morning at 207 South Main Street in Horseheads.  The areas between East Franklin Street and Broad Street have been closed since at least 9:15 a.m.  Troopers said in a press conference Sunday afternoon that a man was charged and arrested on Saturday.  However, the story first started on November 6th, in the Town of Veteran.

"On November 6, 2023, a Veteran highway employee rendered 911 services to Merka Road in the Town of Veteran for a found possible explosive. Members of the NYSP bomb disposal unit, and FBI responded and made the explosive safe. Members of the State Police and our federal partners diligently investigated numerous leads over the week by interviewing neighbors, and seeking information from companies across the United States," said Major Miklos Szoczei II, Troop E Commander with the New York State Police.

Police say that investigation yielded a potential suspect.  Then on November 11th, it was reported a UHaul needed to be stopped. Dispatchers on the police scanners could be hears saying State Police Horseheads called in the UHaul, saying it was in Newfield and needed to be stopped before reaching Ithaca.

As for the reason, dispatchers were heard saying there could be explosive material on the vehicle. 

Police say they successfully intercepted the UHaul in Newfield.  Troopers said that 43-year-old Michael P Hilliard of Horseheads was arrested and charged with criminal possession of a weapon on November 11th. after that UHaul was intercepted.  On the morning of November 12th, a search warrant was issued for Hilliard's residence, and authorities found several suspicious hazardous materials inside. The immediate area was evacuated, and the scene was blocked off.  People evacuated from their homes are being assisted by the Red Cross and the Horseheads Fire Department.

"The New York State Police are working in conjunction with the FBI for the disposal of all hazards. East Franklin street to Broad Street will be closed to the public until further notice," added Major Szoczei II.  

State police says federal agents are on their way from Quantico, Virginia to take care of the hazardous materials that were found in the home on South Main Street.  Troopers say the area could be closed for up to 48 hours while the scene is cleared.

Anyone with information should contact New York State Police at 585-398-4100.