Experts: 'Trained Person' Behind Austin Package Bombs

Governor Abbott has offered a $15,000 reward for the arrest of the suspect who is dropping bombs disguised as packages on the front steps of homes around Austin, and the state says its entire resources will be dedicated to the case, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.

"I want to assure all Texans, and especially those in Austin, that local, state and federal law enforcement officials are working diligently to find those responsible for these heinous crimes," Abbott said. "As the investigation continues, the State of Texas will provide any resources necessary to ensure the safety of our citizens, and quickly bring those guilty to justice."

A teenager was killed and an adult wounded in one package bombing on Monday, and an adult was critically wounded in another that happened about four hours later.

Police are now linking those two bombings with a package bomb that killed a 39 year old man on March 2.

San Antonio Police Chief William McManus says he has been in touch with the FBI and other federal agencies who are involved in the case, and has talked with Austin's police chief.

"I wouldn't say that we should be worried, I would say that we should be cautious," McManus said.  "Austin is just too close in proximity."

Austin Police say a person has been personally dropping packages onto front steps of homes.  Police have confirmed the packages were not sent by the U.S. Mail or by any package delivery company.

Experts say its not easy to construct a package bomb that explodes when it is opened, and the case is drawing comparisons with the Unabomber case from the 1990s.

Experts say package bombs like this are generally meant to hurt specific people, and not to take down buildings, like would be expected from a terrorist.  They say whoever is doing this clearly has some training in explosives.

Police have speculated that the bombings may be racially motivated, pointing out that both of the people who were killed are African American.

McManus says everybody needs to be more alert.

"If you get a package that you are not expecting, and you don't know who the sender is, if it appears to be from a random company or no company, do not open it, call us," McManus said.

Austin Police say they know what type of explosive is in the bombs, but haven't released it.  They say they are not certain of a motive, and despite numerous tips, do not have a suspect in mind at this time.

PHOTO: Getty Images


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