Mystery blast solved
Police: Tannerite compound caused vehicle explosion

This four-door Mazda was blown up Sunday using the explosive Tannerite. [Courtesy Photo]

By Leslie Wood
Staff writer

GALLUP — Law enforcement officers have determined the explosive compound used in the weekend blast that left a vehicle charred and strewn about a remote patch of land off Hasler Valley Road. 

Explosive experts learned the chemical Tannerite, along with another easily accessible compound were used in the explosion at about 4:15 p.m. on Sept. 15.  Nearby juvenile detention center employees called 9-1-1 after they heard a loud explosion. Deputies subsequently arrived at the scene and found a Mazda passenger vehicle in pieces.

Officials were later able to track down the vehicle’s owner and question him or her about the incident. The interview subsequently led law enforcement to question William Young, the owner of Bill’s Radiator shop, and Dean Spiros about their potential involvement in the incident. 

Sgt. Albert Benally, of the McKinley County Sheriff’s Department, said the pair confessed to igniting the explosive during an interview with police. They said a high-powered rifle was used to ignite the explosive. The men reportedly used a sizable amount of Tannerite to cause the explosion. 

Young reportedly has access to many old vehicles because of the salvage yard near his business. 

The case is currently under review at the district attorney’s office and the agency will determine if any criminal charges are warranted. As of 10 p.m. Wednesday, Young and Spiros had not been arrested in connection with the explosion. 

Benally said it is legal for residents to have these specific compounds in their possession and they are easily accessible through various outlets. 

He urged residents to use common sense and caution around such chemicals to prevent serious injury or property damage. 

“You have to use good judgment with these chemicals and be safe,” Benally said. 

Multiple agencies and a large amount of manpower were involved in the investigation including the FBI, Albuquerque bomb squad, the ATF, state police and the sheriff’s department.