On September 8, 2006, at 4:38 am, Santa Monica Police responded to the 1400 block of the beach regarding suspicious activity.  When officers arrived they heard several loud popping noises.  The officers located and detained 4 subjects on the beach and during their investigation, the officers located two homemade explosive devices (pipe bombs).  The area was closed off and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad was notified. No one was injured and the investigation is on going.

 

When the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad arrived they examined the devices and detonated two pipe bombs on the beach.  Additional explosive devices were recovered and a large quantity of illegal fireworks was also recovered.  The value of the illegal fireworks is unknown but it is estimated that approximately 3,000 to 4,000 firecrackers, several bottles rockets, and several roman candles were recovered. The area was re-opened at 11:00 am.

 

The suspects were taken to the Santa Monica Jail and are being interviewed by Detectives.