Man involved in bungled suicide pleads innocent

Thursday, Feb. 11, 1999 | 2:47 a.m.

Michael McGilbra, 40, is charged with endangering property by explosives and malicious injury to private property.

Authorities said McGilbra apparently tried to kill himself on Jan. 4 by opening a gas valve and inhaling the fumes. He fell asleep, and when he woke up he lit a cigarette with the intent to blow himself up.

The blast tore the roof off a building and destroyed or damaged several units.

McGilbra was hospitalized for several days in the burn unit at University Medical Center for treatment of second-degree facial burns.

Three children were cut by flying glass but there were no major injuries.

Damage was estimated at $500,000.

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