FBI Seizes Over 150 Homemade Bombs in Virginia, One of Largest Explosive Discoveries in History

In December, US investigators seized over 150 pipe bombs and homemade explosives from the home of Virginia man Brad Spafford, marking one of the largest explosive device seizures in FBI history. The discovery came after Spafford’s arrest on firearms charges, prompting federal agents to search his property.

The explosives, which included a variety of pipe bombs and bomb-making materials, were primarily found in a detached garage, with additional bombs located unsecured in a bedroom backpack, according to federal prosecutors. The devices were often labeled as “lethal.”

Spafford, a 36-year-old, faces charges related to an unregistered short-barrel rifle and the possession of illegal firearms. Authorities are considering additional charges regarding the explosives.

Prosecutors allege that Spafford was involved in dangerous activities, citing an informant’s report that he had been stockpiling weapons and ammunition and expressing support for political violence, including assassinations. The informant also revealed Spafford’s disfigurement after a homemade explosives incident in 2021.

The FBI and bomb technicians detonated most of the devices on-site, though some were kept for analysis. Despite the lack of evidence for a specific violent plan, Spafford’s history, the nature of the seized explosives, and his expressed interests in violent actions raised serious concerns.

In a court hearing, Spafford’s defense argued that there was no clear intention for violence, citing his clean criminal record. However, the court ruled to keep him in detention while further proceedings unfold.