A 33-year-old man is behind bars after what started as a report of gunfire in rural Oregon, Illinois, ended with neighbors evacuated, a bomb squad on scene and an alleged explosive device inside a home, according to authorities. Deputies say the man was found in the house with a loaded handgun and what they described as an explosive device, and he was taken into custody following a pretrial detention hearing.
According to WIFR, the Ogle County Sheriff's Office identified the suspect as 33-year-old Alec Rutherford of Oregon. He faces multiple charges that include possession of an explosive device with intent to commit a felony, aggravated discharge of a firearm and unlawful use of a weapon.
Deputies were called shortly after 4 p.m. on June 4 for reports of a domestic disturbance and shots fired in the area of Indian Heights Drive. As reported by WREX, the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office bomb squad was requested, a drone was used to check the residence and detectives recovered additional firearms from inside the home.
Neighbors Evacuated, Drone Confirmed Suspect Was Alone
Nearby residents were evacuated while the bomb squad and tactical units secured the scene and worked to safely clear the property. According to WIFR, a drone was used to clear the house and confirmed Rutherford was alone inside before deputies moved in. He was then taken into custody without further incident.
Charges, Custody and Ongoing Probe
At a pretrial detention hearing on June 5, the court ordered Rutherford to remain held at the Ogle County Jail, and the investigation into the incident is still active, with the possibility of additional charges, according to WREX. Detectives have not released any information about a possible motive.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Ogle County Sheriff's Office and say more details will be released as the case develops. Residents are urged to follow local updates and official channels for any further safety information.
