Blast rocks home of Andrew Wordes, Georgia’s ‘Chicken Man’

During a confrontation with police, an explosion was reported today at the home of a Georgia man who had fought for the right to raise chickens on his property, according to The Associated Press.

A body was found at the scene in Roswell, near Atlanta, but has not been publicly identified, according to the news agency.

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Known as the “Chicken Man,” Andrew Wordes had achieved local notoriety for waging a legal battle to raise chickens on his property.

Marshalls had been on the scene attempting to evict Wordes as his home was in foreclosure.

According to The Atlanta Journal Constitution, investigators suspect Wordes poured gasoline throughout the house rather than face eviction.

"There was an initial explosion and subsequent fire," Lt. James McGee of the Roswell, GA police was quoted as telling reporters.

McGee reportedly said an incendiary device at the house had been discovered and was being examined by authorities.

In 2009, city officials cited Wordes for raising chickens, according to the AP, which said people wearing “I Love Chickens” T-shirts showed up at his court hearings in his support. He was ordered jailed last year on property code violations, according to AP.

The news agency said local marshals denied that they had used excessive force.

"We didn't go in with a show of force. We just went in communicating the eviction order," Antonio Johnson of the Fulton County marshal’s office was quoted as saying. "We were very lucky. Officer safety is first."

The AP cited WSB-TV as saying Wordes had had several telephone conversations with a reporter today, including a communication just prior to the blast. On recording of the final call, a reporter asked what was happening.

"I just can't tell you. It ain't pretty though," Wordes reportedly said.

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According to the Journal-Constitution, Wordes fell behind on mortgage payments while in jail in 2009.

"He was a great, great generous guy," Stacey Gervickas, a neighbor, was quoted as saying.