State and federal investigators found explosives and materials used to make bombs during the execution of a search warrant at a home in West Odessa, the Texas Department of Public Safety said Thursday.
Multiagency response in West Odessa
The DPS Criminal Investigations Division, joined by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ector County Sheriff’s Office, carried out a warrant at a residence in the 3000 block of North Skylark Avenue. During the search, officers located explosive devices and bomb-making components inside the home.
Bomb squads from the Odessa Police Department, Midland Police Department and the FBI responded to evaluate and safely render the items harmless. Authorities said a controlled explosion could be required to disable any devices or hazardous materials discovered.
"There is no known threat to the community or surrounding area at this time," DPS said.
Public safety actions and ongoing work
Officials asked residents in the immediate area to stay inside and to avoid the scene while law enforcement continued operations. The investigation remains active and authorities have not released further details.
- Location: 3000 block of North Skylark Avenue, West Odessa
- Responding agencies: DPS Criminal Investigations Division, FBI, Ector County Sheriff’s Office, Odessa and Midland bomb squads
- Community guidance: Stay indoors and avoid the area while operations continue
Why it matters for Ector County and West Texas
A discovery of explosives within city limits prompts an immediate, layered response because of the risk to residents and first responders as well as potential legal and investigative consequences. The involvement of state and federal personnel signals the seriousness of the materials found and can lead to broader inquiries beyond the immediate scene.
| Agency | Role |
|---|---|
| DPS Criminal Investigations Division | Executed warrant |
| FBI | Assisted search; bomb squad response |
| Ector County Sheriff’s Office | Assisted search |
| Odessa & Midland Police | Bomb squad assessment and render-safe operations |
Investigators have not provided additional specifics about the types or quantity of explosives, nor have they named any suspects or announced charges. Law enforcement agencies cautioned the public while they work to ensure the scene is safe and to determine the circumstances that led to the discovery.
Officials will likely release further information as the active investigation continues. For now, residents near North Skylark Avenue should follow directives from local authorities and expect temporary disruptions while investigators complete their work.
