The Austin Police Department, in coordination with local and federal partners, has concluded a months-long investigation into a series of explosive incidents that occurred in Central and South Austin.
Beginning in August 2025, APD received reports of repeated late-night explosions in the areas surrounding Jones Road and the Blunn Creek greenbelt near St. Edward’s University. Further investigation determined the incidents were not consistent with commercially available fireworks and posed a potential risk to public safety.
On August 13, 2025, the APD Bomb Squad responded to an explosion in the 2500 block of Jones Road and collected evidence of an improvised explosive device. As reports continued through 9-1-1, 3-1-1, and community tips, investigators identified a pattern of activity spanning several months.
Due to the complexity of the investigation and the potential threat to our community, the APD Bomb Squad, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigators and explosive specialists, and Austin Fire collaborated with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force, the Austin Regional Intelligence Center and the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force.
On December 16, 2025, investigators identified a suspect and executed a search and arrest warrant in the 500 block of Lightsey Road in Austin. During the search, multiple improvised explosive devices were located inside the suspect’s residence and vehicle.
The suspect was identified as Derek Austin Gillespie, a 49-year-old White male. Following interviews conducted by the APD Crime Gun Intelligence Unit and ATF task force investigators, Gillespie was arrested and charged with Possession of a Prohibited Weapon – Explosive Device, a third-degree felony.
