Photo: Hugo Gonzalez
ONTARIO – 49-year-old Hugo Gonzalez of Fontana was arrested yesterday for setting off two explosive devices at opposite ends of the Ontario Sam’s Club, setting nearby merchandise ablaze.
Investigators believe Gonzalez acted alone when he detonated the devices and fled before responding Ontario PD officers arrived at approximately 2 PM to the call of a possible structure fire.
Sam’s club employees quickly used fire extinguishers to quell the blaze. As a responding officer located Gonzalez fleeing in a Honda Civic, a short pursuit ensued before the driver pulled over to submit to the arrest.
Investigators located additional materials similar to the explosive devices within the getaway vehicle.
His apartment and an associated apartment located in the 16500 block of Arrow Blvd., Fontana, were searched, where similar device-manufacturing materials were also found. Evacuations were in effect, safely sending residents to the Civic Center.
Ontario Fire Department Bomb Squad’s thorough search of the store found two detonated devices. Agents from the FBI, ATF and Fontana PD assisted Ontario PD Investigators.
Searches and evacuations concluded nearly 12 hours later at approximately 1:30 AM. There is no motive revealed at this time. Gonzalez’ multiple charges include arson, possession of a destructive device, and ignition of a destructive device.
Gonzalez was booked at Valley Detention Center, and is being held on $1 million bail.
Information is urged for this ongoing investigation. Please contact Ontario PD 909-986-6711, or Detective Josh Burks at 909-395-2912
