Ukiah, California – A 49-year-old man faces serious charges after authorities allege he detonated an explosive device in a public area and possessed another at his residence. Todd Scott was taken into custody following an incident that unfolded in Redwood Valley, where the explosive allegedly caused a minor fire.
On Thursday, local law enforcement received reports of an explosion occurring around noon in the 8600 block of North State Street. Witnesses reported seeing a shopping cart from which smoke was billowing. Firefighters from the Redwood Valley-Calpella Fire District responded swiftly and managed to extinguish the fire before it could spread further, with help from nearby residents.
Fragments recovered from the scene matched evidence linked to a separate, unactivated explosive device discovered just a day earlier in Talmage. That device, which had been placed in a roadside ditch along Talmage Road, was retrieved safely by the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad and had been under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.
Following the explosion in Redwood Valley, deputies identified Scott as a suspect. He was apprehended later that same day during a traffic stop in the area. A subsequent search of his home reportedly uncovered another explosive device, along with several firearms. Due to previous criminal charges, Scott was prohibited from owning firearms.
Scott is facing multiple charges, including the unlawful possession and detonation of a destructive device, as well as arson against forest land. After being booked into the Mendocino County Jail, he was released after posting bail.
Authorities are urging anyone with further information regarding Scott or the incidents to reach out to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office. Citizens can call the office directly or provide anonymous tips if they prefer.