Colorado Springs, Colorado – A man is set to face all charges against him in an upcoming trial after being accused of setting off a homemade explosive device near downtown Colorado Springs in January.
Edward Kiley appeared before a judge for a preliminary hearing on Monday, where the only charge eligible for discussion was first-degree arson. Kiley had been arrested on several charges following an explosion that rattled downtown Colorado Springs, including the 11 News studio.
The explosion, confirmed by Colorado Springs police to have occurred in the area of Costilla and El Paso streets, led to a search warrant being executed at Kiley’s residence. Police discovered evidence linking Kiley to the explosion, as indicated in arrest papers.
During the court proceedings on Monday, an El Paso County deputy from the bomb squad presented evidence related to the arson charge. The prosecution introduced video footage from various security cameras, including one from Kiley’s home showing him with a device resembling the explosive one.
The prosecution highlighted damage to a nearby business caused by the device, along with the materials found at the scene. They argued that materials purchased by Kiley at a hardware store matched those found at the site of the explosion.
Kiley’s defense questioned the video evidence, noting the absence of footage showing him lighting the device or driving the truck to the scene. They argued that the device was not designed to be explosive, labeling it as an improvised hot air balloon. Despite the defense’s arguments, the judge ruled that there was enough evidence to support the first-degree arson charge.
Ultimately, the judge decided that Kiley would face the charge and scheduled another court date for mid-April to continue the legal proceedings.