The Ashland Police Department, Ashland Fire & Rescue, and the Talent Police Department responded to the 300 block of Morton Street to investigate a loud explosion at 4:43 this morning.
Officers found that an explosive device had been detonated inside of a parked and unoccupied vehicle, and what was thought to be a potential secondary explosive device was found inside as well. The area was secured with neighbors being advised to shelter in place.
Bomb disposal techs from the Oregon State Police Department arrived on scene to assist, and verified that there was no further threat of explosion in the area.
Evidence indicated that the crime was committed by a known male suspect. He had also been the focus of investigations by the Medford Police Department, and was wanted on charges stemming from said investigation. Detectives were quick to locate the suspect at a residence in the 100 block of Fork Street in Ashland and took him into custody.
The investigation is ongoing, and the suspect, Michael Scott Beugli, 32, of Ashland, was arrested. Law enforcement charged him with First and Second Degree Arson, Unlawful Possession and Manufacture of a Destructive Device, Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, Reckless Endangering, and Reckless Burning.
Beugli was transported and lodged at the Jackson County Jail.
