David Michael Ansberry Arrested in CO Bomb Case

A 71-year-old man believed to have planted an improvised explosive device in a shopping complex in Nederland, Colorado, has been taken into federal custody. David Michael Ansberry, born in 1952 and originally from California, was arrested Saturday in Chicago, Illinois, after an intensive manhunt led by the FBI, Boulder County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), Nederland Police Department, and ATF.

Ansberry is charged with attempted destruction of a building or property by means of fire or explosive, a federal offense carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and up to 20 years, along with a potential $250,000 fine. The suspect was identified through forensic and surveillance evidence linking him directly to the placement of the device in the small mountain town’s commercial district.

The explosive, discovered early last week, was safely dismantled by bomb technicians on-site. Authorities say the device was functional and posed a serious threat to public safety. No injuries were reported, but the discovery sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community, prompting immediate lockdowns and a full-scale investigation.

“Thanks to the tireless work of this team of law enforcement professionals, a man who is charged with placing a dangerous device in a public place is in custody,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer. “The FBI, Boulder County Sheriff’s Office, the Nederland Police Department, and the ATF pulled together, dismantled this explosive device, and tracked down the man who allegedly made and placed it. Outstanding work all around.”

Ansberry made his initial appearance in federal court in Chicago and will be transported to Colorado to face the charges. He is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Holloway and Trial Attorney Mara Kohn with the Counter Terrorism Section of the National Security Division. Substantial support was provided by the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office.

A Criminal Complaint has been filed, which is a probable cause charging document. Federal authorities stress that the charges are allegations, and David Michael Ansberry is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 303-629-7171.