Two men have been arrested in Utah on suspicion of placing an incendiary device beneath a news media vehicle in Salt Lake City, authorities have confirmed. The device, which had been ignited, failed to detonate.
Police and fire department bomb squads were called to the scene on Friday after a suspicious object was discovered under the parked vehicle, which was located near an occupied building. According to court records cited by CBS affiliate KUTV, investigators determined that the device “had been lit but failed to function as designed”.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation subsequently identified two suspects and executed a search warrant at a property in Magna, a community situated to the west of Salt Lake City’s downtown area. The operation led to the arrest of two men, aged 58 and 31. ABC affiliate KTVX reported on Sunday that the pair could face charges relating to weapons possession and threats of terrorism.
During the search of the Magna residence, neighbouring homes were evacuated as a precaution. Court documents state that investigators recovered explosives and “explosive-related components”, as well as firearms, illegal narcotics and associated paraphernalia. Authorities also reported finding at least two devices that were later determined to be hoax weapons of mass destruction.
Officials have not disclosed any information regarding a possible motive for the alleged attack, and the relationship between the two suspects has not been established.
The incident occurred amid heightened media presence in Salt Lake City following the assassination last week of Charlie Kirk, co-founder of the conservative youth organisation Turning Point USA. News crews from multiple outlets have been in the city covering developments related to that case.
The discovery of the device prompted a significant emergency response, with bomb disposal teams working to secure the area and ensure public safety. The presence of explosives and other hazardous materials at the suspects’ residence has raised concerns about the potential scale of the threat.
Authorities mum on targeted media vehicle
Authorities have not indicated whether the media vehicle targeted in the incident belonged to a specific news organisation or whether the act was connected to recent political events. The investigation remains ongoing, with federal and local agencies collaborating to determine the circumstances surrounding the failed attack.
The arrests mark one of the more serious security incidents in the region in recent months, drawing attention to the risks faced by journalists and media personnel in the course of their work. Law enforcement officials have urged members of the public to report any suspicious activity and have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors.
Further details, including formal charges against the two men, are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
