A 44-year-old Boone County man was arrested Wednesday after deputies discovered evidence of an explosive device being made inside his home in the Hewett area of West Virginia, according to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the suspect as Ronald D. Burgess. He faces charges of child neglect creating a substantial risk of injury and illegal possession of a destructive device.
According to a Facebook post from the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were serving a search warrant at Burgess’ residence following a drug complaint when they discovered evidence that an explosive device was being manufactured inside the home.
The West Virginia State Police Bomb Squad responded to the scene. After the area was declared safe, investigators reportedly found a partially constructed pipe bomb, along with other materials and writings believed to be connected to its construction.
Burgess was arrested after returning to the residence while deputies were conducting the search.
Investigators also reported that several other people lived in the home, including a small child. This led to the child neglect charge, which alleges that the child was exposed to a substantial risk of injury.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.
