Lincoln PD works with state and feds after finding 5 improvised explosives; man faces additional charges

LINCOLN, Nebraska (COLN) — The Lincoln Police Department said they are working with state and federal investigators after improvised explosive devices were discovered at two locations in northwest Lincoln.

A total of five improvised explosive devices were discovered Wednesday at two different locations after a traffic stop in northwest Lincoln.

LPD said three devices were found in the car and two in a neighboring apartment where a search was made.

Assistant Police Chief Brian Jackson said investigators also found explosive devices in various stages of construction and development.

According to the LPD, officers arrested 24-year-old Spencer Spydell. Speydell is charged with two counts of unlawful possession of first-degree explosives.

On Friday, Lancaster County Attorney Pat Condon said his office will charge Spydell with possession of a disruptive device, which is a class 4 felony.

Spencer Spadell (Lincoln Police Department)

Condon said the recent charge carries a penalty of up to two years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. Condon said his office would also require Spydell’s bail.

When it comes to Spydell’s intentions with improvised explosives, Assistant Chief Jackson said it’s part of their ongoing investigation: “That’s why we’re bringing in our state and federal partners to make sure. I will tell you that we do not have any signs of any kind of domestic extremism, but again, illegal activities and certainly cause for concern, based on the nature of the violations.

At this point, investigators are unaware of the strength of pipe bombs. The items were safely removed and no one was hurt in either location.

“Our main goal when we come across these devices is to make them safe for the public, for officers. Once this is done, all this testing will be done on the back end. Later this will be done in laboratories, said Captain Ben Miller.

Investigators said they are working with the ATF and the FBI, as well as Lincoln Fire and Rescue, to figure out the best course of action and test improvised explosives.

Assistant Chief Jackson said investigators have expanded their search to other locations, talked to many people, but he says it’s not a concern at the moment.

The LPD has arrested 23-year-old Dominik Vossberg, who is charged with drug possession. According to the LPD, Fossberg was driving Spydell’s car during the initial traffic stop, which then prompted investigators to search Spydell’s apartment.

LFR and LPD outside a house near 8th NW and West Cornhusker where at least two explosive devices were found inside, forcing authorities to evacuate residents inside. (Ryan Swanigan (Nebraska))

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