Austin Man Arrested After Months-Long Investigation Into Explosive Incidents
Austin Police, working alongside local and federal partners, have arrested a man following a months-long investigation into a series of explosive incidents that raised public safety concerns in Central and South Austin.
The investigation began in August 2025 after APD received multiple reports of late-night explosions near Jones Road and the Blunn Creek greenbelt in the area of St. Edward’s University. Investigators determined the blasts were not consistent with commercially available fireworks and appeared to involve improvised explosive devices.
On August 13, 2025, the APD Bomb Squad responded to an explosion in the 2500 block of Jones Road, where evidence of an improvised explosive device was recovered. As additional reports came in through 9-1-1, 3-1-1, and community tips, investigators identified a pattern of similar incidents occurring over several months.
Given the complexity of the case and the potential risk to the public, APD partnered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Austin Fire, the FBI’s 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 search and arrest warrants at a residence in the 500 block of Lightsey Road. During the search, authorities located multiple improvised explosive devices inside the suspect’s home and vehicle.
The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Derek Austin Gillespie, was interviewed by APD and ATF investigators and arrested. He has been charged with Possession of a Prohibited Weapon – Explosive Device, a third-degree felony.
Authorities say there is no ongoing threat to the public and no injuries have been reported in connection with the incidents. APD and partner agencies credited community members for reporting suspicious activity and emphasized the role of interagency cooperation in resolving the case.
The investigation remains ongoing as the case moves forward with the Travis County District Attorney’s Office. Police encourage anyone who observes suspicious or potentially dangerous activity to report it to APD or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
