A Michigan man and his two sons survived what authorities are calling an assassination attempt after someone planted a bomb in their car Tuesday night. Law enforcement agencies appear to be investigating whether the bomber has ties to the victim's law practice.

Erik Chappell and his two sons were severely injured when the bomb blew up their vehicle outside Monroe, Mich., around 5:30 Tuesday evening. Chappell was able to drag his sons from the burning wreckage of the vehicle; no witnesses have been found who saw the actual explosion.

According to the Monroe News, Chappell is an attorney in nearby Sylvania, Ohio, who has been receiving threats after handling some high-profile cases and divorces.