Alexander County Deputies Find Explosive Devices During Traffic Stop

Deputies with the Alexander County Sheriff's Office arrested a Stony Point man after several improvised explosive devices were discovered during a traffic stop.

Authorities say the stop happened on April 17 along U.S. Highway 64 East after deputies observed a black Ford Mustang being driven erratically. During the investigation, deputies learned the driver’s license had been suspended.

A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of multiple improvised explosive devices. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Bomb Squad responded to assist and safely secured the devices without incident.

After the devices were removed, deputies conducted a second search of the vehicle and found methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm.

Christopher Scott Thompson, 58, was charged with 10 counts of possession of a weapon of mass destruction, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Thompson was taken to the Alexander County Detention Center, where he is being held under a $690,000 secured bond. His first court appearance is scheduled for April 20 in Alexander County District Court.

Officials say the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be filed.