Man Federally Charged After Explosive Device Discovered Under News Van

A chilling incident in Salt Lake City has led to federal charges against a man accused of placing a dangerous explosive device beneath a local news station's van. The swift action by law enforcement and the vigilance of a KSL-TV employee averted what could have been a catastrophic event, sending shockwaves through the community and raising serious questions about the safety of journalists.

According to federal court documents, Michael Troy Hellewell is facing charges that include possession of an unregistered destructive device.

The perilous discovery was made when a KSL-TV staff member noticed a suspicious object attached to the undercarriage of a company news van, which was parked at the station's facility. The employee's quick thinking and immediate report to authorities initiated a rapid response from bomb disposal units and law enforcement agencies.

Investigators quickly identified the object as a viable explosive device, designed with the intent to cause significant harm.

The presence of such a device under a vehicle used by media professionals underscores a deeply concerning trend and highlights the potential risks faced by those reporting the news. The motive behind Hellewell's alleged actions remains a critical focus of the ongoing investigation, though preliminary findings suggest a deliberate and targeted act.

The federal charges against Hellewell carry severe penalties, reflecting the gravity of his alleged crime.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the sophisticated threats that can emerge and the constant need for vigilance. The collaborative efforts of local police, federal agencies, and the quick-thinking individual at KSL-TV were instrumental in preventing what could have been a tragic outcome, reinforcing the importance of community awareness and robust security measures.