Crime
Brad Spafford arrested after authorities determined he possessed largest caches of explosives in FBI history
The majority of the explosives were stored in a detached garage, alongside tools and materials for manufacturing, including PVC pipes and homemade fuses.
Federal authorities have arrested a Virginia man after discovering a record cache of homemade explosive devices at his residence, marking the largest seizure of finished explosives in FBI history, officials confirmed.
Brad Spafford was taken into custody on December 17 at a farm in Smithfield, Virginia, approximately 29 miles northwest of Norfolk. Spafford has been charged with unlawful possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle, according to court filings.
During a search of Spafford’s home, FBI agents uncovered a stockpile of over 150 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), many of which were identified as pipe bombs. Some devices were marked with the word “lethal.”
The majority of the explosives were stored in a detached garage, alongside tools and materials for manufacturing, including PVC pipes and homemade fuses.
Additional devices were discovered unsecured in a backpack located in a bedroom. The backpack bore the phrase “#nolivesmatter,” which prosecutors linked to an extremist ideology promoting mass violence, criminal activity, and targeted attacks, according to the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness.
Authorities also discovered a jar of explosive material stored in Spafford’s freezer, labeled “Dangerous” and “Do Not Touch.” The explosive was described as so unstable that it could detonate from friction or temperature changes. The jar was stored alongside food items, including Hot Pockets.
Prosecutors reported that Spafford used images of political figures for target practice, expressed support for political assassinations, and had recently sought sniper-rifle qualifications at a local shooting range.
Spafford’s home was occupied by two young children, raising additional concerns about the risks posed by his activities. Prosecutors argued that releasing him on bail would present an “extreme danger” to his family, the community, and law enforcement tasked with monitoring his residence.
“The presence of dangerous and unstable explosives, combined with his extremist views, poses a significant threat,” the detention memo states.
The investigation into Spafford began last year when a confidential source informed authorities that Spafford had disfigured his hand while working with a homemade explosive device. The source also reported that Spafford was stockpiling weapons and manufacturing approximately 50 rounds of homemade ammunition daily.
Spafford remains in custody as federal authorities continue their investigation. Prosecutors are expected to argue for his continued detention, citing the severe risks associated with his release.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.