U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman | U.S. Department of Justice
U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman | U.S. Department of Justice
A King County man appeared in federal court charged with unlawful possession of a destructive device, as announced by U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Sokphana Soeung, 42, was arrested on October 12, 2024, after a slow-speed chase and confrontation with law enforcement officers. He remains detained at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac awaiting further hearings.
The incident began when Bellevue Police responded to reports of two men sleeping in a car with the engine running at Enatai Beach Park around noon on October 12. When approached by police, Soeung drove away, running over spike strips that punctured all four tires. Law enforcement followed him onto Interstate 90 westbound, where Washington State Patrol (WSP) joined the pursuit.
On Mercer Island, a WSP trooper executed a maneuver to stop the vehicle. Soeung exited the car holding a black ball device and a lighter but was tackled by police before he could use them. The device was identified as a tennis ball filled with explosive powder and equipped with a fuse. Another explosive device made from sparklers taped together was found in the car.
The investigation led to the closure of I-90 for an extended period while bomb squad personnel ensured there was no threat to public safety or the bridge.
The second person in the vehicle exited before Soeung and claimed no knowledge of the explosives during questioning.
Soeung has been held in state custody since his arrest. Unlawful possession of a destructive device carries a maximum penalty of ten years imprisonment.
The case is being investigated by Bellevue Police Department, Washington State Patrol, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Cecelia Y. Gregson is prosecuting the case.
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