Explosive Discovery: Two Suspects Arrested After Device Planted Under Utah News Van

A terrifying incident unfolded in Salt Lake City, Utah, as a destructive device was discovered meticulously planted beneath a KUTV news van, triggering a massive law enforcement response and the swift arrest of two suspects. The alarming find, made on November 2, 2024, at the KUTV studio parking lot, sent shockwaves through the local community and highlighted the increasing threats faced by journalists.

The ordeal began when a vigilant KUTV employee noticed a suspicious object under their station's news vehicle.

Their prompt report initiated an immediate and comprehensive response from the Salt Lake City Police Department, who quickly secured the scene. Given the potential danger, multiple federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), were called in to assist.

The bomb squad, equipped with specialized tools and expertise, confirmed the presence of an incendiary device, reportedly featuring a cellular component, indicating a sophisticated and malicious intent.

Under extreme caution, the bomb squad successfully removed the dangerous device, rendering it safe and preventing what could have been a catastrophic event.

This critical action allowed investigators to meticulously process the scene for evidence, marking the start of an intensive probe into who was responsible for such a brazen act of aggression.

The investigation moved rapidly. Detectives swiftly identified and apprehended two brothers, Gabriel William Short, 36, and Jeremy John Short, 42, in connection with the incident.

Gabriel Short was taken into custody near 1100 East 3300 South, while Jeremy Short was arrested close to 8400 South 2200 West. Both arrests underscored the concerted effort by law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice without delay.

The brothers now face a litany of serious charges, including possession of a destructive device, criminal mischief, and obstruction of justice.

Authorities have set a $100,000 cash-only bail for Jeremy Short, with Gabriel Short's bail yet to be determined. This isn't Gabriel Short's first brush with the law regarding threats against media personnel; he was previously arrested in May 2023 for allegedly threatening journalists via social media, raising disturbing questions about a potential pattern of targeting the press.

While the specific motive behind planting the device remains under investigation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the perils journalists face.

The targeting of a news organization's vehicle with an explosive device is a grave assault on press freedom and safety, forcing temporary disruptions to KUTV's operations. This chilling event underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and protection for those dedicated to reporting the news, and the swift actions of law enforcement have brought a measure of reassurance to a shaken community.