A large block of Stevens Avenue has been evacuated tonight for a tense situation that required the ATF bomb tech to respond in Estill County.
The incident began when Irvine Police went to Stevens Avenue to serve an arrest warrant for public lewdness on a man. The charges stem from an incident this past Wednesday, August 15, 2023, when a neighbor presented pictures and video to police showing 33-year-old Marcus Spurgeon of Irvine masturbating in full view.
When attempts to confront Spurgeon failed at his home, today police traffic stopped him. That’s when authorities say suspicious items were observed in Spurgeons vehicle. Upon his arrest, Chief Sturniolo of the Irvine Police Department says Spurgeon gave the department written consent to search the home. The subsequent search resulted in officers finding what they describe as an arsenal. Multiple firearms, ammunition, and the most alarming discovery. What police say is believed to be a high grade, military style explosive that they described as “live and unstable.”
ATF bomb tech out of Georgetown was called to the scene while officers evacuated the entire street of residents and pets.
Around 9:30 tonight, the bomb tech, ATF agents, and Chief Sturniolo used x-ray equipment on the device and determined it was filled with what is believed to be explosive powder. Confirming it to be an active explosive.
The device has been secured in a safe, explosive proof “frag bag” for transport for further examination by the ATF.
Police continued with that search of the residence to see what else might be there or yet discovered. They are acting with an abundance of caution.
Police say additional felony charges may be brought against Spurgeon as they case evolves. He was booked into the Three Forks Jail around 6:30 this evening.
Residents were allowed to go back to their homes on Stevens Avenue around 10:45 p.m. tonight.
