Corpsman accused of making bombs

JAMES CITY COUNTY, Va. (WAVY) - The James City County Fire Marshal's Office assisted the police department on a call on Dec. 31 when officers discovered the possible presence of bomb making materials.

Police were responding to a domestic assault at 845 Vail Ridge in the Seasons Trace subdivision in James City County.

Shortly after police arrived, the James City County Fire Marshal's Office requested the help of Naval Weapons Station Yorktown explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) personnel. Together, the crews discovered materials to make bombs, and one partially completed improvised explosive device. The EOD removed all materials and devices.

According to District Chief Robert S. Ryalls with James City County says the materials found included: smokeless gun powder, military heat tablets, multiple pieces of 6-inch-long iron pipe with endcaps and copper wire. A timing device and wiring was connected to the partially completed IED.

The James City County Fire Marshal's Office obtained a felony warrant for 37-year-old Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (EXW) Joseph Robert Yengel. He was charged with manufacturing and possession of an explosive device, a felony, as well as domestic assault. Yengel is a decorated active member of the US Navy. He is being held at Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail.

NCIS is also assisting with the investigation.