Canby Police Department

Press Release

December 21st, 2011 4:53 PM

Canby Explosion Update - Tip Line

On December 11, 2011, at approximately 6 p.m. Canby Police and Canby Fire personnel responded to an explosion at 591 NE 22nd Avenue.

The explosion resulted in the death of Ivan Velasco Rodriguez. According to the Clackamas County Medical Examiner, the cause of death was head trauma as a result of the explosion.

Canby Police Department, along with the Metropolitan Explosive Demolition Unit, Clackamas ATF, FBI, and the County Major Crime Team, has been actively investigating the cause of the explosion. A search of the blast and the collection of evidence occurred over a three day period, ending on Wednesday, December 14, 2011. It has been determined the explosion was caused by a pipe bomb that was concealed in a toolbox. Details regarding the manufacture of the device are not being released pending the investigation.

Due to alert community members living in the immediate area of the explosion, additional debris associated with the explosion has been located and reported to law enforcement officials working this case. Today, December 21, 2011, members participating in this investigation are returning to the area and they will expand the search for potential evidentiary debris.

No suspects are in custody at this time and a motive for this incident is still under investigation.

Investigators are still seeking information from the community that will help them in their investigative efforts.

A tip line has been established for any information relating to the explosion or manufacture of the device. A $5,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. If you have information, please call 1-800-800-3855.

Media Contact – Chief Bret Smith, Canby Police Department, 503-793-1227