FBI tip leads to arrest of Merced County teen accused of making explosives

A 17-year-old boy accused of making explosive devices was arrested Monday after Merced County Sheriff’s deputies followed up on a tips from the FBI..

The juvenile, whose names has not been released, was allegedly manufacturing the explosive devises and threatening to use them, according to a Merced County Sheriff’s Office social media post.

Sheriff’s deputies along with the Merced County Police Department Bomb Squad served a search warrant at a residence in the area of Pacemaker Drive and Shaffer Road in Atwater at about 7 a.m. Monday, according to Deputy Daryl Allen.

During the search, authorities located multiple items that are known to be used in making explosive devises, according to the release.

According to Allen, there is no danger to public at this time and the juvenile was arrested on suspicion of several felony charges related to the possession of explosive devices.

The investigation is ongoing and authorities ask that people avoid the area.

This story was originally published August 22, 2022 at 1:45 PM.