Arrest Made After Threats Toward University of New England; Bomb-Making Materials Located

September 15, 2025

By: Scanner Alerts Media Group

A 24-year-old Cornish man was detained and later jailed after an investigation into comments referencing potential threats toward the University of New England in Biddeford, with bomb-making materials located at his residence and multiple charges filed.

On Monday morning, September 15, 2025, Maine State Police, in coordination with the Biddeford Police Department, investigated concerning comments reportedly made at a restaurant in Cornish. Troopers identified the individual as Blake Tibbetts, 24, of Cornish. He was detained, evaluated at a local hospital, and transported to the York County Jail. At MSP’s request, the Maine Fire Marshal’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation assisted. During the investigation, agencies located bomb-making materials at Tibbetts’ residence on Old Limington Road.

The Maine Fire Marshal’s Office charged Tibbetts with Terrorizing (Class C), Criminal Use of Explosives (Class C), and Criminal Attempt to Cause a Catastrophe (Class B). He is being held on $500,000 cash bail.

Given the nature of the charges and the evidence recovered, the Maine Fire Marshal’s Office has assumed the role of primary investigative agency, working with Maine State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the York County District Attorney’s Office. Authorities report there is no ongoing threat to the University of New England community. The matter remains under active investigation, and no further details are being released at this time.

Credit: Maine Fire Marshal’s Office

Credit: UNE