California Man Arrested for Alleged Backpack Explosive at Idaho Gold Show

Authorities say the device was similar to a Molotov cocktail with a napalm-like chemical compound.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A 21-year-old man from Midpines, California was arrested on Sunday after allegedly attempting to set off a backpack explosive during the annual Northwest Gold Prospectors Association Gold Show in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. The incident occurred after the man and his father reportedly got into a dispute with another vendor at the event.

Why it matters

The alleged attempt to detonate an explosive device at a crowded public event raises serious concerns about public safety and security, especially at gatherings that attract large crowds. The use of a Molotov cocktail-like incendiary device also suggests the potential for significant harm if the device had fully detonated.

The details

According to the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, the California man approached another vendor's table inside one of the main buildings and threw a backpack under the table. The backpack caught fire and was quickly removed from the building as it continued to burn. Authorities said the explosive device was similar to a Molotov cocktail and contained a chemical compound closer to napalm, but it did not fully detonate due to an improper mixture of the chemicals.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon during the annual Northwest Gold Prospectors Association Gold Show in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
  • The California man was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of arson, aggravated assault, and obstructing a peace officer.

The players

Kootenai County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to and investigated the alleged explosive incident at the gold show.

21-year-old man from Midpines, California

The suspect who was arrested for allegedly attempting to detonate an explosive device at the gold show.

Northwest Gold Prospectors Association

The organization that hosts the annual gold show where the alleged incident took place.

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What they’re saying

“They got really lucky.”

— Lt. Mark Ellis, Kootenai County Sheriff's Office (SFGATE)

What’s next

The suspect will be arraigned in court on Monday afternoon.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for heightened security measures at large public events, especially those that may attract individuals with malicious intent. It also raises questions about the potential for copycat incidents and the ongoing challenges of preventing such threats to public safety.