PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – A series of over 150 mysterious explosions spanning two years in a Pasadena neighborhood has led to the arrest of a 63-year-old man this week by local authorities.
Residents in the area near Allen Avenue and Washington Boulevard had reported loud blasts, many of which were detected by ShotSpotter technology utilized by law enforcement to pinpoint gunfire sources.
After 14 recent explosions in the vicinity, investigators were able to link two vehicles to the incidents and trace them back to a Pasadena resident believed to be involved.
On a fateful day, officers in the area witnessed an explosion followed by a white cloud rising, leading them to the man’s 2013 BMW. Subsequently, the suspect, identified as Art Leon Berian, was taken into custody at the scene.
Following the arrest, Pasadena police stated that no injuries had been reported in connection with the explosions. Berian now faces three felony charges related to explosives with the intent to harm or intimidate, with his bond set at $1.5 million.
As of now, details regarding a possible motive for the explosions and their specific nature remain undisclosed. It is uncertain if Berian has legal representation, with an arraignment scheduled for the near future.
Individuals with information pertaining to the case have been urged to contact Pasadena Police at 626-744-4241 or anonymously provide tips via “Crime Stoppers” at 800-222-8477.