The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office announced on March 9 that deputies responded to an explosive incident at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds during a gold mining event on March 8.
According to the sheriff’s office, a backpack exploded after being thrown under a vendor’s table by the son of one of the vendors. The incident followed a dispute between two vendors that took place the previous day. The backpack caught fire but was quickly removed from the building, and no injuries were reported. The event continued as scheduled.
Deputies from Kootenai County and officers from the Coeur d’Alene Police Department detained the suspect without further incident. The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue responded to render the backpack safe. Investigators found additional accelerants inside that did not ignite.
Because both vendors were staying at a hotel in Coeur d’Alene, local police are assisting with the investigation. John P. Marsh, 21, of Midpines, California, was arrested on suspicion of arson, aggravated assault, and obstructing a peace officer. Detectives are continuing their investigation and said additional charges may be filed.
Due to the nature of the case, federal authorities have also become involved. “Due to the nature of the incident, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has been contacted and will assist with the investigation,” said Sheriff Robert B. Norris.
