Suspect Injured;Hundreds Evacuated Due to Explosion
LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Sunday, May 21, 2000
"Suspect Injured, Hundreds Evacuated Due to an Explosion"
Los Angeles - On May 21, 2000, at 8:05 AM, Rampart Area Patrol Officers responded to a back-up call by the Los Angeles Fire Department to the scene of an explosion at the 300 block South Normandie Avenue. The explosion occurred when a male suspect, who lives on the third floor of the three-story apartment building, attempted to manipulate an explosive devise.
The suspect received minor face and hands injuries as the result of the explosion, which also left a hole in the floor of the apartment. The suspect was treated at scene for his injuries by LAFD Paramedics, and taken into custody by LAPD Officers.
Fearing the presence of additional explosives and danger to residents in the area, responding officers proceeded to evacuate the area and notified Los Angeles Police Department Explosives Experts to respond to the scene.
Bomb Squad Officers searched the suspect's vehicle and apartment for additional explosives. The search resulted in the recovery of several improvised explosives in the suspect's apartment. Due to the volatility of the explosives found, a Total Contained Vehicle was used to render the explosives safe.
Officers and representatives from the Los Angeles Police Department, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, American Red Cross, Los Angeles Fire Department, and Los Angeles Department of Transportation, transported and cared for the many evacuees who were inconvenienced by this incident. The evacuees were transported to a shelter located at Cahuenga Elementary School.
The suspect, identified as Gary Weksler, Male, White, approximately 45 years old, was arrested and booked for possession of explosives.
The investigation is being conducted by Detective Support Division, Criminal Conspiracy Section.
Any inquires please contact Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.
For Release 11:00 am PDT
May 22, 2000
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