Crime
40-year-old Brent Sharrai arrested after planting IED on parked railroad car in Payette, Idaho
On January 1, 2025, at approximately 5:54 p.m., the Payette Police Department responded to reports of a suspicious individual observed near a parked railroad car in the 600 block of North 8th Street. The individual appeared to be attempting to ignite an object.
Upon arrival, officers discovered fresh footprints in the snow leading to a train car. Inside the car, they located a suspected undetonated improvised explosive device (IED).
Officers followed the tracks to a nearby camp trailer parked close to a residence in the same area.
The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Payette resident Brent Sharrai, attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended after a brief pursuit. Sharrai surrendered to law enforcement and was taken into custody on outstanding warrants in Payette County.
He was later booked into the Payette County Jail on multiple charges, including:
- Possession of a Destructive Device (Felony)
- Possession of a Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Possession of Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor)
- Resisting and Obstructing Officers
Given the imminent danger posed by the IED, the Nampa Bomb Squad was called to the scene to neutralize the threat. Union Pacific Railroad was notified, and all trains scheduled to pass through the area were placed on standby for approximately five hours while the scene was secured.
Using a specialized robot, the Nampa Bomb Squad safely removed the device from the train car and later detonated it in a controlled environment to ensure it no longer posed a threat. An FBI agent also responded to assist with the ongoing investigation.
A search warrant was obtained for the camp trailer where Sharrai had been staying. Inside, officers discovered items consistent with those used to construct the IED found on the train car, as well as controlled substances and drug paraphernalia.
Sharrai remains in custody at the Payette County Jail, facing the listed charges. Federal charges for possession and manufacturing of a destructive device are pending further investigation by the FBI.
This incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and swift action by law enforcement. The Payette Police Department extends its gratitude to the Nampa Bomb Squad, Union Pacific Railroad, and the FBI for their assistance in ensuring the safety of the community.
Authorities are investigating a shooting that occurred on Northern Spy Road near Gravel Pond in Clarks Summit.
According to law enforcement officials, a female victim suffering from a gunshot wound was transported to the emergency room by her brother.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
In response to the incident, SWAT teams have been activated, as a male suspect remains inside the residence.
Law enforcement is working to secure the scene and ensure public safety.
Further details regarding the victim’s condition and the status of the suspect have not yet been released.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area as the situation continues to unfold.