LORAIN, OH — A controlled detonation shook parts of Lorain Wednesday evening after authorities discovered an explosive device linked to the suspect who shot three police officers earlier in the day.
According to the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office, the bomb was recovered from the scene of a deadly standoff near Colorado Avenue and Kansas Avenue on Lorain’s east side. Officials believe it belonged to the 28-year-old gunman who opened fire during what began as a welfare check.
Residents reported feeling the blast around 7:00 p.m. The sheriff’s office later confirmed the explosion was intentional and conducted by its Bomb Squad. A Facebook alert issued shortly before the detonation informed the public there was no danger.
“Please be aware, it is a controlled detonation being conducted by the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad,” the statement read.
Law enforcement sources confirmed to Lorain Daily that the explosive was tied to the same individual involved in the earlier shooting. The suspect allegedly ambushed officers with a high-powered rifle, critically injuring two Lorain police officers who were later airlifted from the scene. A third officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The suspect was found dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether he was killed by police gunfire or died by suicide.
Details about the bomb’s construction, location, or intended use have not been released. However, the presence of an explosive device further underscores the premeditated and dangerous nature of the attack.
The investigation remains ongoing. Federal and state agencies are now working alongside local authorities to examine the full scope of the incident.