A Virginia man, Alexander Sweetman, 19, from Arlington, was arrested on New Year’s Day after law enforcement officials discovered homemade explosive devices in his vehicle. Authorities acted swiftly following reports of suspicious activity, which ultimately led to Sweetman’s apprehension and a series of charges that highlighted the severity of the situation.
The Warren County Sheriff’s Office reported that Sweetman was wearing a ski mask while driving a dark-colored Honda. Concerned citizens initially alerted police to the vehicle, describing its suspicious behavior and location near a roadway. However, when officers arrived at the scene, the car was no longer there. The vehicle was later spotted at a 7-Eleven, leading deputies to investigate further.
Upon arrival at the convenience store, officers attempted to approach Sweetman. However, he fled the scene on foot, prompting a brief pursuit. Deputies quickly apprehended him and initiated a detailed investigation into his actions and the contents of the vehicle. According to law enforcement officials, Sweetman did not own the car, lacked a valid driver’s license, and exhibited signs of potential mental health issues. These factors raised additional concerns and underscored the urgency of the situation.
During their initial inspection of the vehicle, officers uncovered burglary tools, which prompted them to obtain a search warrant for a more thorough investigation. The search revealed several objects resembling homemade explosive devices. Law enforcement immediately escalated the matter, enlisting the expertise of the Warren County Fire Marshal’s Office, the Loudoun County Bomb Squad, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
Bomb squad technicians removed the devices from the vehicle and conducted a controlled detonation to neutralize any potential threat. Additional searches were conducted in areas where Sweetman and the vehicle had been previously reported. Explosive detection canines were deployed to ensure that no additional hazardous materials were left behind.
Sweetman was taken to a local hospital for a medical evaluation and later transferred to the Rappahannock-Shenandoah-Warren Regional Jail. He faces multiple charges, including obstruction of justice, possession of burglary tools, wearing a mask to conceal identity, driving without a license, and manufacturing and possessing explosive materials or devices. He is currently being held without bond.
The incident comes weeks after another significant case involving explosives in Virginia. In mid-December, federal agents seized what they described as the largest cache of explosive devices in FBI history. This separate case involved Brad Spafford, 36, from Isle of Wight, who was arrested after authorities discovered over 150 explosive devices on his farm near Newport News. Spafford now faces charges related to the possession of unregistered destructive devices, as well as an unregistered short-barrel rifle, which carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
While there is no evidence linking the two cases, the discovery of explosives in Sweetman’s vehicle underscores growing concerns about the accessibility and potential misuse of such materials. Authorities continue to monitor both situations closely to ensure public safety and to investigate any possible connections or motives.
The Warren County Sheriff’s Office emphasized its commitment to maintaining community safety, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. As investigations continue, officials stress the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
