Austin Man Arrested for Tossing Explosive Devices in Neighborhoods

UPDATE: Austin Police have arrested Derek Austin Gillespie, a 49-year-old man, accused of driving through South Austin neighborhoods and tossing explosive devices from his car. This alarming behavior, which included detonations powerful enough to shake homes and set off car alarms, has prompted a swift police response and community outrage.

Authorities confirmed that Gillespie’s arrest on December 16, 2023, concludes an extensive investigation that began in August. The investigation was sparked by concerned residents reporting loud explosions, initially thought to be fireworks. However, police quickly determined these blasts were dangerous and posed a serious threat to public safety.

“This investigation began with concerned community members vocalizing public safety concerns,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office. “Thanks to the collaboration between law enforcement agencies, we were able to identify the suspect.”

The explosive incidents, which occurred predominantly between midnight and 5 a.m., spanned several months and were reported near Jones Road and the Blunn Creek Greenbelt. Over a dozen explosions were documented across Central and South Austin, with witnesses describing blasts that rattled windows and shook houses.

One particularly alarming incident occurred in October, when a woman walking her dogs on East Live Oak Street narrowly avoided injury as an object exploded just 20 feet away from her. Investigators noted that had the device landed closer, it could have caused serious harm.

Additional explosions were reported around St. Edward’s University and Krebs Lane, prompting repeated responses from the APD Bomb Squad, which recovered various explosive remnants. According to police, “as these incidents have continued, numerous persons in the community have expressed that they no longer feel safe living in their own homes.”

Investigators ultimately identified Gillespie through surveillance footage and cell phone data that placed him near multiple blast sites. Notably, police cited a 2021 incident where Gillespie allegedly threw fireworks from a moving vehicle near an APD patrol car.

The case escalated on December 13, when police tracked Gillespie leaving his job at Sammie’s Italian Restaurant. Shortly after, at 3:37 a.m., a blast was reported in the 3800 block of Wadford Street. Surveillance video revealed a vehicle dropping an object that exploded, shaking residents’ homes over 400 feet away.

Authorities executed a search warrant at Gillespie’s residence in the 500 block of Lightsey Road, where they discovered multiple improvised explosive devices. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the explosions, and police believe there is no ongoing threat to the public.

This case highlights the vital role of community vigilance in ensuring public safety. As investigations continue, residents are urged to report suspicious activities to local authorities.