Full Notification

Explosions on McLaughlin, lead to arrest.

On Monday March 12, 2018, at 6:18pm., Morgan Hill Police were dispatched to the area of East Central and McLaughlin for a report of an explosion. Callers reported hearing a loud explosion and then observed smoke and debris flying in the air.
Officers responded and contacted a subject in the open garage of the home where the explosion occurred. He was identified as Dennis Fritsinger, 63, the owner of the home. Officers noticed laboratory type materials, chemicals, and compounds in the garage. Fritsinger admitted to mixing chemicals/compounds and setting off the explosion. He was placed under arrest. The neighbors were evacuated until the area was confirmed safe. Approximately 15 homeowners were evacuated for approximately three hours.
The Santa Clara County Bomb Squad responded and rendered the home safe and the homeowners were allowed back home. A search warrant was obtained and served at the residence and numerous compounds and chemicals were located and seized.
Fritsinger was arrested for possession/manufacture of a destructive device and for a felon being in possession of ammunition, (rifle and handgun). He was booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail.