A 15-year-old Collier County boy has been arrested after posting a video online threatening to use an explosive device on Halloween night, authorities said.
According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrested Enzo Vargas-Giraldo around 4 p.m. Friday at his home on Palmetto Ridge Drive. Detectives discovered materials used to make an explosive device in the garage.
Earlier that day, Vargas-Giraldo posted a video on social media showing himself holding what appeared to be a homemade explosive. In the video, he said he planned to use the device during trick-or-treating and warned that a particular neighborhood “is not safe.”
A teenager who saw the video immediately reported it to the sheriff’s office, prompting an urgent response. Deputies, detectives, and members of the bomb squad searched the home, and agents from the FBI also assisted in the investigation.
Vargas-Giraldo faces three felony charges: manufacturing an explosive device with intent to harm, possession of a destructive device, and making electronic threats to cause bodily injury. Investigators are working with the State Attorney’s Office to determine whether additional charges will be filed.
“Anyone who spreads fear in our community will face the consequences,” Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said. “Using their professional skills, advanced technology, and threat analysis programs, our detectives will thoroughly investigate any threat and charge the person responsible.”
Sheriff Rambosk also praised the teen who reported the video, saying their quick action may have prevented a tragedy. “This young person did exactly the right thing and is to be commended for taking decisive and potentially lifesaving action,” he said.
The sheriff’s office and Collier County Public Schools continue to remind students to report any suspicious social media posts and never repost threatening content.
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