On Wednesday, August 23rd, 2017, the Redding Police Department assisted the Tehachapi Police Department and other law enforcement personnel from the Kern County area with the service of two search warrants in Redding regarding an ongoing investigation out of the Kern County area. The suspect in this investigation has been identified as 48 year old Jeffrey Dean Enslow. Enslow is currently in custody in Kern County.
At approximately 1:00 P.M., a search warrant was served in the 1400 block of Victor Avenue. During the service of this warrant, a large bucket labeled “Danger Explosive” was located in the garage of the target residence. Additional items associated with the manufacturing of homemade explosives were also located.
The Shasta County Bomb Squad responded to the scene and spent an extensive amount of time determining what the bucket labeled as explosive contained. This was a delicate operation requiring specialized equipment, extensive safety procedures, and specially trained personnel. During this time evacuations were recommended for surrounding residences due to the potential danger posed by the substance.
The Redding Fire Department provided valuable resources for implementation and coordination of evacuations. Reverse 911 calls were initiated to notify residents of the incident. Nearby streets and intersections were also closed out of safety concerns and to allow for the significant public safety response to stage nearby the target residence.
While the Bomb Squad was operating at the residence on Victor Avenue, Redding Police and Tehachapi Police served a second warrant in the 1000 block of Rolling View Drive in north Redding. Evidence associated with the investigation out of Kern County was seized at this location.
At approximately 11:55 P.M., the Shasta County Bomb Squad determined the bucket located at the Victor Avenue residence contained a chemical precursor which could be used in the manufacturing of homemade explosives. The substance was determined to be safe to handle and samples were obtained for evidence. Evacuation recommendations were lifted and street closures were removed. Residents were returning to their homes as law enforcement officers left the scene.
The Redding Police Department received assistance with this incident from The Shasta County Sheriff’s Department, Redding Fire Department, Cal Fire, City of Redding Streets, and the Shasta Area Chapter of the Red Cross.
The Redding Police Department thanks residents for their patience and cooperation while this incident was safely resolved.
In the interest of public safety, the Redding Police Department will not be disclosing any additional information regarding the manufacturing of homemade explosives or the processes involved.
