DATE/TIME: September 2, 2023 /9:17 a.m.
INCIDENT: PC18715 (A) (3) – Possession of Explosives in Public
PC 453 – Possession of an Incendiary Device
PC 18710 (A) – Possession of a Destructive Device
PC 3056 – Parole Violation
LOCATION: Vacant Parcel – 3rd Street/West of Marilyn Avenue, Highland
SUSPECT(S): Joseph Harkai, 42-years-old, Transient of Highland
VICTIM(S): State of California
SUMMARY:
On Saturday, September 2, 2023, at about 9:17 a.m., deputies from the Highland Sheriff’s Station began an investigation after learning a male subject, identified as Joseph Harkai, was possibly manufacturing explosives and threatening neighbors.
At about 9:22 a.m., deputies located Harkai in a vacant parcel near 3rd Street, west of Marilyn Avenue, in Highland.
During a search of Harkai’s belongings, deputies located an incendiary device with a wick protruding out. Road flares and a dagger with chains attached were also located.
Sheriff’s Bomb and Arson investigators responded to the location and confirmed the devices were flammable explosives. Bomb and Arson investigators took the devices to be properly destroyed.
While deputies were taking Harkai into custody, a community member reported Harkai had been threatening to kill residents in the community surrounding the vacant parcel.
Harkai was booked at the Central Detention Center and remains in custody without bail.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Highland Station at 909-425-9793. Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or go to www.wetip.com.
Refer: Deputy Cuellar
Station: Highland Station
Phone No. 909-425-9793
Case No. DR# 132303221
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
