The Austin Police Department (APD), with support from local and federal agencies, has completed an investigation into a series of explosions that took place in Central and South Austin over several months.
Reports of late-night explosions began in August 2025 around Jones Road and the Blunn Creek greenbelt near St. Edward’s University. Investigators determined these incidents were not related to commercially available fireworks and could have endangered public safety.
On August 13, 2025, the APD Bomb Squad responded to an explosion on Jones Road, where they found evidence of an improvised explosive device. Continued reports through emergency lines and community tips revealed a pattern spanning multiple months.
Due to the seriousness of the situation, APD worked alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Austin Fire Department (AFD), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force, Austin Regional Intelligence Center (ARIC), and U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force.
Investigators identified a suspect on December 16, 2025. A search warrant was executed at a residence on Lightsey Road in Austin where several improvised explosive devices were found inside both the home and vehicle.
The suspect was named as Derek Austin Gillespie, age 49. After interviews by APD’s Crime Gun Intelligence Unit and ATF investigators, Gillespie was arrested for Possession of a Prohibited Weapon – Explosive Device, classified as a third-degree felony.
Authorities stated there is no ongoing threat to public safety and no injuries have been reported from these incidents.
“This investigation highlights the importance of collaboration and persistence,” said APD Chief of Police Lisa Davis. “Thanks to the dedication of our officers, partner agencies, and community members who reported suspicious activity, we were able to stop behavior that posed a serious risk to public safety. APD remains committed to supporting joint investigations that address emerging threats and protect our communities. This case underscores how information sharing and coordinated enforcement efforts can bring swift resolution to complex cases.”
“This investigation began with concerned community members vocalizing public safety concerns,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran of the FBI San Antonio Field Office. “Through the hard work and collaboration of Austin Police and their partners, and our ability to leverage the collective investigative expertise of the Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), we were able to identify the suspect. Thanks to the support of the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, Derek Austin Gillespie will now face justice. We encourage the community to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activity to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov. Your information helps make our communities safer.”
“This case underscores the critical importance of strong partnerships and information sharing in addressing threats involving explosives,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Michael Weddel. “Through close collaboration with Austin Police and our federal, state, and local partners, ATF was able to help identify, locate, and remove dangerous explosive devices before anyone was harmed. The successful outcome of this investigation reflects our shared commitment to protecting the community and holding those who possess prohibited weapons accountable.”
“The success of this investigation is due in large part to the strong, collaborative relationship among local, state, and national law enforcement agencies that comprise the Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force, including representatives from Austin Fire who worked tirelessly to collect evidence that led to identification and arrest,” said Assistant Chief Jeffrey Kennedy from AFD.
APD continues its cooperation with Travis County District Attorney’s Office as legal proceedings move forward.
Officials thanked residents for providing tips throughout this process. Anyone witnessing suspicious or potentially dangerous activity is encouraged by authorities to submit anonymous tips via Capital Area Crime Stoppers or call 512-472-8477.
