Photos show detonator, shrapnel, battery used by Manchester bomber
Photos from the scene of Monday's explosion at Manchester Arena shed new light on the improvised bomb detonated by Salman Abedi.
The suicide bomb, which killed 22 people and injured at least 64, detonated in the arena's foyer as fans trickled out of a concert where singer Ariana Grande had just performed.
The photos, obtained from British authorities by The New York Times on Wednesday, show some of the remnants of Abedi's improvised bomb - a shredded backpack where he may have stored it, a possible detonator found in his left hand, a 12-volt battery, and nuts and screws that were used as shrapnel.
Backpack:
The location where officials found the bomber's torso suggests he carried the bomb in his backpack and was propelled across the foyer, according to the Times, citing an explosive disposal technician.
Shrapnel:
Authorities found nuts and screws that had been packed inside the bomb. According to the Times, some of the shrapnel penetrated metal doors and left deep marks in the floor.
Attackers often use these items in homemade bombs to increase the amount of damage inflicted. Media reports stated that doctors and bystanders helped remove nails, nuts, and bolts from the bodies of survivors of the bombing.
Detonator:
This detonator was found in the attacker's left hand. According to the Times, it's possible the device could have been operated remotely as well, suggesting the bomber could have multiple ways to detonate the bomb.
Battery:
Officials found a "mangled Yuasa 12-volt, 2.1 amp lead acid battery" at the scene, the Times reported, adding that such a battery can be commonly bought for $20. The battery is more powerful than those typically found in suicide bombs, according to the Times.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed on Wednesday they were investigating a "network" of terrorists linked to the British-born Abedi. His older brother was arrested in Manchester on Tuesday in connection with the attack, while his younger brother and father were both detained in Libya, according to media reports.
On Tuesday, while searching a Manchester home believed to be linked to Abedi, forensic experts found a book labeled "Know Your Chemicals." Authorities are still trying to determine the type and size of the bomb.
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