FBI responds to reports of suspicious packages found in Bluefield; Suspect arrested and charged

James Dean Fowler

Bluefield, WV (WOAY) – Authorities responded Monday morning to reports of suspicious packages found outside the Federal Building and the Westminster Church in Bluefield. Officers have arrested and charged James Dean Fowler, 50, with two counts each of threats of terrorist acts and possession or use of a hoax bomb in the commission of a felony.

Bluefield Police Chief Dennis Dillow reports Fowler wanted to speak to someone about national security, indicating he had an explosive device. Officials dismantled the device with a police explosive and determined it to be fake. An X-ray showed another device at the church contained no explosives.

Police state that there is no known motive for the bomb threat.

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