Man Suspected In 150 Unidentified Explosions Arrested

PASADENA, CA — A 63-year-old man suspected of igniting explosives in Pasadena with the intent to injure or intimidate others was taken into custody, police announced Monday.

Detectives have been investigating over 150 unidentified explosions near Allen Avenue and Washington Boulevard, according to Pasadena Police Department Lt. Keith Gomez. Most of the explosions were not reported to police but detected through ShotSpotter technology and neighborhood tips.

At least 14 explosions were reported around the same area within the past two weeks, Gomez said.

A Pasadena Fire Department arson investigator and Pasadena Police Department Robbery/Homicide Unit worked together to identify two involved vehicles with the same registered owner and with the aid of technology, the suspect was identified as Art Leon Berian, police said.

Detectives obtained video around 11:30 a.m. Thursday of a related explosion associated with their investigation.

Upon further investigation, detectives presumed to have heard a loud explosion in the area and observed a white cloud of smoke nearby. They began canvassing the location where Berian's 2013 BMW was witnessed allegedly arriving at the area of the explosion.

Berian was eventually located and booked at the Pasadena City Jail on suspicion of possession of explosives with intent to injure or intimidate. His bail was set at $1.5 million.

There were no injuries reported in the explosions.

Anyone with information regarding the explosions was urged to call the Pasadena Police Department at 626-744-4241. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.

City News Service