The Clermont Police Department said they charged a man in connection to explosive devices found in a vehicle that forced authorities to close State Road 50 Friday.
- Explosive devices found in truck causes SR 50 to shut down
- Hargis Johnson, 46, charged Friday
Hargis Johnson, 46, was arrested Friday night and is charged with possession of explosive devices and possession of a concealed firearm.
Officers say they located the suspect’s red Ford truck Friday afternoon in the parking lot of Sonny’s on 1500 E Highway 50.
According to a news release, several five gallon buckets filled with bottles of gasoline were found in the truck. The bottles reportedly had rags sticking out of them.
Authorities immediately evacuated the area, per Clermont Fire Department’s request.
In addition, both lanes of SR 50 were shut down from Oakley Seaver Drive and Sandhill View Boulevard.
The Lake County Sheriff’s bomb squad was sent to the scene. Officials also reportedly location a “zip gun” inside the truck. Both devices were ultimately deemed safe and roads were reopened.
No one was injured.
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities say Johnson’s intentions are unclear at this time.