A wannabe mad scientist allegedly started a fire at his Long Island apartment complex after a dangerous mix of chemicals had an adverse reaction during a home experiment, cops said.
Nolan Gaugler, 34, was allegedly conducting an “unknown chemistry experiment” and mixing hazardous chemicals together inside his Mineola apartment at around 2:30 a.m. Sunday when the blend “reacted violently,” according to Nassau County police.
Gaugler then allegedly panicked and threw the mixture into the hallway of his building, where it burst into flames, according to police.
The fire torched parts of the floor and walls, according to photos of the aftermath.
Residents of the building had to be evacuated and were stuck outside for hours while the arson and bomb squads responded to the scene and investigated the apartment.
Inside the home, which was fitted with laboratory equipment, authorities said they found a large amount of chemicals.
Some of the substances were determined to be unstable and explosive. They were removed and brought to another location to safely blow up.
Gaugler was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment, arson, and criminal possession of a weapon, police detailed.
He pleaded not guilty on Monday and was released with an ankle monitor, according to court records.
