23-year-old nabbed for detonating device in Baltimore

Police collar suspect in parking lot explosion with no injuries
23-year-old nabbed for detonating device in Baltimore
Quick Arrest Made in Northwest D.C. Robbery Attempt WASHINGTON, DC - Following a Northwest robbery attempt, D.C. Metro Police Department’s Third District detectives have swiftly apprehended a suspect. The incident occurred today around 2:53 PM, in the 1200 block of W Street, Northwest. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Lenare Leath, Jr. of Northwest D.C., allegedly brandished a knife and pushed the victim to the ground in an attempt to steal their property. After a struggle, the suspect fled empty-handed but was quickly caught by responding officers. The victim sustained minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital. Leath has been charged with Assault with Intent to Commit Robbery. Photo 107991078 | Arrest © Oleg Dudko | Dreamstime.com

Baltimore, MD — A 23-year-old Baltimore County man has been arrested in connection with a destructive device explosion that rocked a Southeast District parking lot over the weekend, city officials announced.

Brent Goetz was taken into custody on April 28, one day after investigators linked him to an explosion that occurred around 2 p.m. on April 27 in the rear parking lot of the 6300 block of Eastern Avenue. The blast prompted a swift police response, but no injuries were reported at the scene.

Officers said both the suspect and unidentified individuals nearby fled before officers arrived. Goetz was arrested without incident in the 3000 block of Ross Avenue.


Key points:

  • Explosion occurred April 27 in parking lot on Eastern Avenue
  • Brent Goetz, 23, arrested April 28 and charged with possessing a destructive device
  • No injuries reported; suspect arrested without incident

Investigation leads to swift identification and arrest

Following the blast, Southeast District investigators launched a search for the suspect based on evidence gathered at the scene. Within 24 hours, they identified Goetz as the person responsible and executed his arrest the following day.

Goetz was transported to the Central Booking Intake Facility, where he was formally charged with possession of a destructive device and second-degree assault.


Community remains on alert despite no reported injuries

Police said the device was detonated in an area where other individuals were present, although none remained at the scene when officers arrived. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive or whether any targets were involved.

Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact police.