Man Charged After Allegedly Threatening to Target New Hampshire Gov. With 'Weapon of Mass Destruction' By Christina Coulter

A 22-year-old New Hampshire man is accused of threatening to kill Gov. Kelly Ayotte and describing bomb-making materials in Snapchat messages.

Tristan Anderson, of Hooksett, is charged with criminal threatening and harm or threats to certain government officials, CBS reported.

A criminal complaint reviewed by the outlet alleges he “did knowingly threaten to commit the crime of homicide and/or assault against Governor Kelly Ayotte … for the purpose of influencing such official’s action or in retaliation for action taken as part of such official’s government duties.”

CBS reported that Anderson was allegedly messaging with a woman on Snapchat and said, “I’m going to target the NH Mayor Kelly ayott [sic]… With my weapon of mass destruction.”

The woman told police Anderson owned guns and had mentioned making pipe bombs, per the outlet.

Police said Anderson allegedly showed the woman metal tubes he was using to make the bombs, as well as nuts and bolts he planned to put in them, and that he had bought fireworks and taken them apart to create the pipe bombs, per CBS.

His messages also included antisemitic remarks, the outlet reported.

He was arrested on Aug. 28 and remains in custody without bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 20.

Ayotte, a Republican and former U.S. senator, was elected governor last year after defeating Democrat Joyce Craig.