A disturbing case is unfolding in Polk County, Tennessee, where authorities say a man was arrested after threatening to assassinate public officials and stockpiling explosive devices in his home.
On Friday, Polk County deputies arrested 54-year-old Kevin Wade O’Neal at his residence in Old Fort, a rural area just east of Chattanooga. According to investigators, O’Neal had made threats against law enforcement and public servants, prompting the arrest warrant.
While taking him into custody, deputies reportedly noticed what looked like an improvised explosive device on the property. This discovery triggered an immediate response from the Chattanooga Police Department Bomb Squad and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
After searching the property, authorities uncovered a total of 14 explosive devices. Shocking details revealed that O’Neal allegedly tried to detonate the devices during the arrest attempt, putting everyone on the scene at extreme risk.
O’Neal now faces nine counts of attempted first-degree murder… one for each Polk County deputy present… plus two more counts tied to others at the scene. He’s also been hit with multiple weapons-related charges.
He remains in custody at the Polk County Jail without bond. As of now, no legal representation has been confirmed on his behalf.
