Key Takeaways
- The Austin Police Department has arrested a man, Derek Austin Gillespie, in connection with multiple explosions near St. Edward’s University.
- The investigation, which began in August, was conducted in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI.
- Gillespie has been charged with possessing explosive devices, a third-degree felony.
- The police found multiple explosive devices in Gillespie’s home and car at the time of his arrest.
- The public’s reports of suspicious activity played a crucial role in helping investigators identify a pattern that led to Gillespie’s arrest.
Introduction to the Incident
The Austin Police Department has finally provided an answer to the many residents of South Austin who have been wondering about the loud booms that have been occurring overnight. After a months-long investigation, the police have arrested a man, Derek Austin Gillespie, who is believed to be responsible for the multiple explosions near St. Edward’s University. The investigation was conducted in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI, and it has brought an end to the series of mysterious explosions that have been disturbing the peace in the area.
The Investigation
The investigation began in August, when the police received calls about loud booms overnight near Blunn Creek, close to St. Edward’s University. The police responded to these calls and soon discovered that the explosions were not isolated incidents, but rather part of a larger pattern. Days later, the police responded to a bomb call off Jones Road in South Austin, which they believed was connected to the previous explosions. The police sought the help of the ATF, FBI, and U.S. Marshals, and together, they found evidence that tied Gillespie to the explosions. The police found multiple explosive devices in Gillespie’s home and in his car when he was arrested, which further solidified the case against him.
The Arrest and Charges
Derek Austin Gillespie, 49, was arrested at his home on Lightsey Road and charged with possessing explosive devices, a third-degree felony. The police have not disclosed how long Gillespie had been allegedly making homemade explosives, but they have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to public safety now that he is in custody. The police have thanked the public for reporting their concerns, which helped investigators identify a pattern that ultimately led to Gillespie’s arrest. The police chief, Lisa Davis, praised the dedication of the officers, partner agencies, and community members who reported suspicious activity, saying that their efforts helped stop behavior that posed a serious risk to public safety.
History of Loud Booms in South Austin
Loud overnight booms are not a new phenomenon in South Austin. For years, residents have been complaining about being awakened by the sounds of explosions south of Lady Bird Lake in the 78704 area. While the police have not disclosed how long Gillespie had been allegedly making homemade explosives, it is clear that the issue has been ongoing for some time. The arrest of Gillespie brings a sense of relief to the community, which had been living with the uncertainty and fear of these mysterious explosions.
Conclusion and Future Steps
The arrest of Derek Austin Gillespie brings an end to the series of mysterious explosions that have been disturbing the peace in South Austin. The police have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to public safety, and the community can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The incident highlights the importance of community involvement in reporting suspicious activity and the collaboration between law enforcement agencies in solving complex cases. As the case against Gillespie proceeds, the community will be watching to see what consequences he will face for his actions, and how the authorities will work to prevent similar incidents in the future.
