WACO, Texas (AP) - A former first-responder in the Central Texas town devastated by a deadly plant explosion is to appear in court on allegations that he possessed materials for a pipe bomb.
Authorities haven't linked Bryce Ashley Reed to the April 17 blast that killed at least 14 people and leveled part of the town of West.
Federal agents arrested Reed last week and charged him with possessing an explosive device. He is to appear in federal court in Waco on Wednesday afternoon.
His attorney, Jonathan Sibley, says Reed intends to plead not guilty.
Reed became well-known after the explosion for his moving remarks at a memorial for first responders. But officials say Reed was "let go" from the West EMS team two days after the blast, and others have questioned his past.
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