What started as a routine traffic stop on U.S. Highway 64 East ended with a Stony Point man in jail and a bomb squad on scene, according to deputies. Officers say they pulled over a black Ford Mustang after spotting erratic driving, then discovered improvised explosive devices inside the vehicle. The devices were secured without incident, no injuries were reported and the driver was taken into custody as the investigation continues.
Traffic Stop Uncovered Explosives And Drugs
Deputies say the Friday stop began when they noticed the Mustang being driven erratically and learned the driver had a suspended license. A search of the vehicle followed. That is when investigators say they found several improvised explosive devices. The sheriff's office reported that the devices were made safe and that the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation bomb squad was called in to assist.
Once the explosives were removed, deputies say they found methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and a firearm. Authorities identified the driver as 58‑year‑old Christopher Scott Thompson of Stony Point.
According to the Alexander County Sheriff's Office, Thompson faces multiple charges, including ten counts of possession of a weapon of mass destruction. He is being held in the Alexander County Detention Center under a $690,000 secured bond and had a first court appearance scheduled on Monday.
What The Charges Mean Under State Law
Under North Carolina law, possession of explosive devices and other items classified as "weapons of mass destruction" is treated as a serious felony. State statutes spell out what qualifies as such a weapon, the criminal offenses tied to possessing them and the potential penalties.
The law also bars convicted felons from possessing firearms and provides stiffer punishment for certain kinds of banned devices. These rules are set out in the state code by the North Carolina General Assembly.
Local History And Next Steps
Alexander County has seen similar scares before. Prior cases involved explosive devices being found and bomb squads responding, which led to temporary closures in some areas, according to WCCB Charlotte. Those earlier incidents help explain why deputies locked down the latest scene and called in state bomb technicians without hesitation.
Investigators say this case is still active and additional charges could follow as detectives process evidence from the stop. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Alexander County Sheriff's Office.
