A large firework was thrown at a home in Antioch on Monday morning, causing minor property damage and leading police to investigate whether this was connected to a recent controversy involving the residence.
Officers responded to the home in the Lake Alhambra area at 10:11 a.m. after receiving a report that an incendiary device had been thrown at the property. The device exploded, but no one was injured, the Antioch Police Department said in a statement Monday.
Investigators preliminarily believe the device was a large firework. Police said they have interviewed several witnesses and are reviewing surveillance video from the surrounding area. They are pursuing several leads, but no suspect has been identified.
The residence has been linked to several cases in July, including a recent one involving its resident allegedly yelling and using racial slurs, drawing significant attention on social media. The same person had been arrested on allegations of a civil rights violation and battery involving a different victim.
Police said they are investigating whether Monday’s explosion is connected to the recent social media attention surrounding the July events.
They warned against retaliation or vigilante actions, saying harassment, threats, trespassing, property damage or violence could result in separate criminal charges since such actions could also put neighbors, including children and pets, as well as community members and first responders at risk.
Anyone with information about Monday’s firecracker case is asked to contact the department’s Investigations Bureau at 925-779-6926 and refer to case no. 26-7784. Anonymous tips are accepted.
Police said they are limiting more details because both Monday’s investigation and the separate July criminal case remain active.