Backpack Explosion Reported at Kootenai County Fairgrounds; One Arrested

Authorities say the incident may have stemmed from a dispute between two vendors at a gold mining event.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A 21-year-old California man was arrested on suspicion of arson, aggravated assault, and obstructing a peace officer after a backpack exploded during an event at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds in Idaho. No injuries were reported, and the event was able to continue after the incident.

Why it matters

The backpack explosion at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds raises concerns about public safety at large events and the potential for escalating disputes between vendors to turn violent. Authorities are investigating the incident further to determine the full extent of the threat and any additional charges that may be filed.

The details

According to the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, deputies were dispatched around 1:15 p.m. on March 8 after receiving a report that a backpack had exploded during a gold mining event at the fairgrounds. Investigators say the incident may have stemmed from an apparent dispute between two vendors that began the previous day. Authorities allege that on March 8, the son of one vendor approached the other vendor and threw a backpack under the vendor's table. The backpack caught fire and was quickly picked up and thrown outside the building, where it continued to burn.

  • The incident occurred on March 8, 2026 around 1:15 p.m.

The players

John P. Marsh

A 21-year-old man from Midpines, California who was arrested on suspicion of arson, aggravated assault, and obstructing a peace officer.

Kootenai County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and is leading the investigation.

Coeur d'Alene Police Department

The local police department that is assisting with the investigation since the vendors involved are staying in the city.

Spokane County Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad

The bomb squad that responded to the scene and rendered the backpack safe.

Kootenai County Fire and Rescue

The fire department that responded to the scene.

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What’s next

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has been contacted and is expected to assist with the ongoing investigation due to the nature of the incident.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for event organizers and vendors to have clear protocols in place to address disputes and prevent them from escalating to the point of violence or property damage. Authorities will likely increase security measures at future events at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds to ensure public safety.