Law enforcement officers in Tennessee arrested a man this week after discovering 14 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in his home. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office reported that the arrest occurred on March 1, 2024, as deputies attempted to apprehend Kevin Wade O’Neal on multiple active warrants. O’Neal faces serious allegations, including threats to kill public officials and law enforcement personnel.
Deputies and detectives arrived at O’Neal’s residence on a Friday to execute the arrest. During the operation, officers noticed something smoldering in the bedroom, which they later identified as an IED. The situation escalated quickly, prompting the involvement of specialized units. Officers from the bomb squad and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were called in to conduct a thorough search of the property.
Upon investigation, authorities discovered a total of 14 IEDs within the home. Detectives revealed that O’Neal allegedly intended to detonate these devices as law enforcement arrived to arrest him. The charges against him are severe: he faces 11 counts of attempted first-degree murder, 14 counts of possession of prohibited weapons, and one count of possession of explosive components. The attempted murder charges specifically relate to the responding personnel from the sheriff’s office, as well as two other individuals present at the scene.
O’Neal, aged 54, is currently being held at Polk County Jail, with bond details yet to be determined. It remains unclear if he has secured legal representation.
The discovery of the explosive devices raises significant concerns about public safety, and authorities are continuing their investigation into O’Neal’s activities. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the importance of the swift response that prevented potential harm to both law enforcement officers and the broader community.
