A Virginia man is now in custody after the FBI discovered an unprecedented stockpile of explosives in his home, marking the largest find in the agency’s history.
The individual, identified as Brad Spafford from Smithfield, Virginia, was initially charged for possessing an unregistered rifle. During a search of his property, investigators uncovered more than 150 homemade explosive devices, which were identified as pipe bombs. His arrest took place on December 17.
Most of the explosives were located in a garage separate from the main house, along with additional materials found in a backpack in a bedroom. Prosecutors noted that the phrase “#nolivesmatter,” linked with an ideology that has encouraged violence, was written on the outside of the backpack.
Furthermore, authorities found a jar of HMTD, an extremely sensitive explosive that could detonate from changes in temperature and friction, stored in Spafford’s freezer next to food items. The jar carried warnings indicating it was “dangerous” and advised against touching it.
Prosecutors have filed a motion to keep Spafford detained, expressing concerns for his family’s safety and the potential risk to the community. The FBI also discovered a notebook in his home containing instructions for making explosives and other weapons, including grenades and military-grade explosives like C-4.
According to court documents, Spafford has shown support for political assassinations, used images of President Joe Biden for target practice, and sought sniper shooting qualifications at a local range.
Spafford, who reportedly has no prior criminal record or issues with mental health or substance abuse, came under investigation after a source reported his dangerous activities. This source claimed that Spafford lost three fingers on his right hand while attempting to create an explosive device.
