A 49-year-old man was arrested after a series of late-night explosions rattled south Austin, authorities say. The incidents, described as repeated late-night blasts, prompted an intensive response from the Austin Police Department. Police first received reports in August of explosions near Jones Road and the Blunn Creek greenbelt, close to St. Edward’s University. These reports led to a bomb squad investigation and a growing list of potential threats to the community. The arrest, made on December 16, follows a month-long effort to locate and neutralize the devices.
In August, residents near Jones Road reported hearing loud explosions during the night. The explosions were heard near the 2500 block of Jones Road, a location that would later become a focus of the investigation. The reports were forwarded to the Austin Police Department, which began a coordinated response. The area is adjacent to the Blunn Creek greenbelt, a popular outdoor space for students and locals. The repeated nature of the incidents raised concerns among city officials and emergency responders.
The APD Bomb Squad investigated a specific report of an explosion in the 2500 block of Jones Road. During the investigation, the squad found evidence that indicated the presence of an improvised explosive device. The discovery confirmed that the blasts were not accidental but were likely intentional. The evidence included remnants of explosive material and fragments that matched the device’s construction. This finding prompted the involvement of additional law enforcement agencies.
An arrest affidavit cited numerous reports of separate incidents involving explosives over the past months. The affidavit indicated that the incidents were not isolated but part of a broader pattern. The document highlighted the complexity of the case and the potential threat to the community. It also detailed the timeline of events leading up to the arrest. The affidavit served as the legal basis for the search and arrest warrants executed in December.
Because of the complexity and potential threat, the investigation involved several agencies. The agencies included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Austin Fire (AFD), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The FBI’s Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force also participated in the effort. Additional partners were the Austin Regional Intelligence Center (ARIC) and the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force. Each agency contributed expertise and resources to locate and secure the explosive devices.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) brought its specialized knowledge of explosive devices. ATF investigators worked closely with APD bomb squad technicians during the August investigations. Their collaboration ensured that evidence was collected and preserved according to federal protocols. ATF officials also assisted in analyzing the explosive material found in the suspect’s residence. Their involvement underscored the seriousness of the threat posed by the devices.
Austin Fire (AFD) provided emergency response and firefighting expertise during the incidents. AFD crews were dispatched to scenes where explosions were reported. They coordinated with police to secure the areas and protect nearby residents. AFD personnel also helped assess potential fire hazards posed by the unexploded devices. Their presence helped maintain public safety while the investigation continued.
The FBI Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force contributed intelligence and investigative support. They monitored potential links between the incidents and broader terrorist networks. The task force also assisted in tracking the suspect’s movements. Their role was to ensure that any national security implications were addressed. The task force’s involvement highlighted the federal interest in the case.
The Austin Regional Intelligence Center (ARIC) supplied local intelligence on the suspect’s background. ARIC analysts gathered information from community reports and surveillance footage. They identified patterns that suggested a deliberate plan to deploy explosives. ARIC’s data helped prioritize search locations for law enforcement. Their work was integral to the rapid progress of the investigation.
The U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force tracked the suspect’s travel history. They confirmed that the suspect had been on the radar for other potential offenses. The task force provided assistance in locating the suspect’s residence on Lightsey Road. Their collaboration ensured that the arrest was carried out safely and legally. The Marshals’ involvement demonstrated the multi-agency nature of the operation.
An October incident added another layer to the investigation. During that event, a woman was walking her two dogs when a car pulled up beside her. The driver threw an object from the vehicle’s driver’s side window toward the woman. The object detonated approximately 20 feet from the woman, narrowly missing her and the dogs. Police concluded that the object could have caused damage if it had been thrown closer.
The object that exploded was described as an improvised device. Investigators noted that the detonation was intentional and aimed at the woman and her pets. The evidence suggested that the driver intended to cause harm. The incident was recorded by witnesses who reported hearing the explosion. The case was added to the affidavit as part of the broader pattern of explosive threats.
On December 16, authorities executed a search and arrest warrant at the suspect’s home on Lightsey Road. The warrant was issued after the affidavit documented multiple explosive incidents. Police entered the residence with a team of officers from APD, ATF, and other partners. The search aimed to locate any remaining devices and related materials. The operation was carried out under strict safety protocols.
Investigators discovered numerous materials connected with explosives inside the home. The items included fragments, casing, and other components used to construct devices. The evidence indicated that the suspect had been preparing multiple explosive devices. The materials were collected for forensic analysis by APD bomb squad technicians. They were also secured as evidence for the upcoming court proceedings.
In addition to the materials found, authorities located five explosive devices in the trunk of a vehicle. The devices were identified through an APD search warrant executed during the same operation. Each device was inspected by bomb squad specialists before being secured. The discovery confirmed the suspect’s intent to deploy multiple explosives. The devices were stored in a controlled environment pending further investigation.
The suspect arrested on December 16 is Derek Austin Gillespie, a 49-year-old resident of Austin. Gillespie was taken into custody following the search of his home on Lightsey Road. His arrest was made public by the Austin Police Department on Thursday. A mugshot of Gillespie was released by APD for the public record. The arrest marked the culmination of a month-long investigation into the explosive incidents.
Gillespie was charged with Possession of a Prohibited Weapon – Explosive Device, a third-degree felony. The charge reflects the illegal possession of devices capable of causing significant harm. The indictment cites evidence collected during the search of his residence and vehicle. The prosecution will argue that Gillespie intended to use the devices to threaten public safety. The case will proceed through the criminal court system in the coming weeks.
A mugshot of Derek Austin Gillespie was provided by APD and circulated in the media. The photograph shows Gillespie wearing a blue police uniform. It is part of the official documentation released by the department. The mugshot serves as a visual record of the suspect’s arrest. APD will continue to provide updates as the case moves forward.
KXAN reached out to an attorney listed to represent Gillespie for a statement. The station is awaiting a response to include in its reporting. No comment has been received from the attorney at this time. KXAN will update the story once a statement is available. The attorney’s perspective will be added to provide balance in the coverage.
The article will be updated with a response to the allegations once it becomes available. KXAN remains committed to reporting the developments in the case. The station will continue to monitor court filings and official statements. Readers are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates. The story reflects the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings.
The repeated explosions have caused concern among residents in south Austin. Local businesses along Jones Road reported disruptions during the night incidents. Community members expressed relief that the suspect was apprehended. City officials emphasized the importance of vigilance and reporting suspicious activity. The incident highlighted the need for robust emergency response plans.
Austin Police Department has increased patrols in the affected neighborhoods. The department is coordinating with fire and emergency services to prepare for potential threats. Public safety announcements urge residents to report any suspicious packages. The city has also reviewed its emergency communication systems. These measures aim to prevent future incidents and protect public safety.
APD officials stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing. They thanked law enforcement partners for their cooperation. The department reiterated that it takes threats to public safety very seriously. APD also reminded the public to remain calm and cooperate with authorities. Officials will provide further details as the case progresses.
The investigation continues with the analysis of forensic evidence from the suspect’s residence. Law enforcement agencies are reviewing surveillance footage from the area. The case is being prepared for court proceedings in the next month. Investigators are also examining potential connections to other incidents. The outcome of the investigation will determine the next steps in prosecution.
The arrest of Derek Austin Gillespie marks a significant milestone in the Austin Police Department’s efforts to address the explosive threats. The coordinated response by multiple agencies underscores the seriousness of the situation. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and law enforcement cooperation. As the legal process unfolds, authorities will continue to monitor the situation. Residents can expect updates from APD and other agencies as the case develops.
