Traffic Stop Explosion, Oct. 16

The FBI and other partner agencies served a sealed federal search warrant related to possible explosives at an apartment located at 18840 NW Rock Creek Circle in Washington County. That search is on-going. At approximately 3:56 pm, FBI task force officers with Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police attempted a traffic stop near NW 185th Avenue and NW Rock Creek Boulevard. The driver, believed to be the resident of the apartment being searched, did not stop. A brief pursuit began, but ended quickly. There appeared to be a small explosion inside the vehicle. The suspect exited the vehicle, and officers took him into custody for a probation violation. Investigators and prosecutors will determine any other possible charges in the future. A Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy who was approaching the vehicle as the explosion occurred has been transferred to a local hospital for evaluation. The suspect was also transferred to a local hospital for evaluation. At this time, there is no known threat to public safety. Partner agencies involved in today’s search included Portland Police Bureau, Metropolitan Explosive Disposal Unit (MEDU), Oregon State Police, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Environmental Protection Agency and Washington County Animal Control.