Pasadena, California – Authorities have made a breakthrough in solving the mystery behind over 150 unexplained explosions that have plagued a neighborhood in Pasadena for nearly two years. The arrest of a 63-year-old man has brought relief to residents who have been on edge due to the ongoing blasts near Allen Avenue and Washington Boulevard, mainly detected by ShotSpotter technology commonly used by law enforcement agencies.
Residents like Kamaron Harris have recounted hearing the loud pops every few weeks late at night, describing them as single firework explosions accompanied by flashes outside their windows. The consistent use of the ShotSpotter system by investigators enabled them to pinpoint the source of the explosions, leading to the apprehension of the suspect.
Detectives involved in the case shared that through the use of the technology, they were able to track down two vehicles believed to be linked to the explosions and eventually located the registered owner, a resident of Pasadena. The breakthrough in the investigation came when officers responding to another explosion witnessed a white cloud rising from the neighborhood and spotted the suspect’s vehicle in the vicinity, resulting in his immediate arrest.
The suspect, identified as Art Leon Berian, is facing charges of three felony counts of explosives with intent to injure or intimidate, with a bond set at $1.5 million. Despite the use of M-80 fireworks in the explosions, authorities have not yet disclosed a clear motive behind Berian’s actions. An attorney for Berian has not been named, and his arraignment is scheduled for Tuesday.
Pasadena Police encouraged anyone with relevant information about the case to come forward by contacting the department directly or through “Crime Stoppers” for anonymous tips. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the explosions, bringing a sense of relief to the neighborhood finally seeing progress in resolving the mysterious blasts that have plagued them for so long.