Fargo, N.D. – A routine traffic stop on Interstate 29 led to the discovery of a suspected explosive device Wednesday morning, prompting a temporary highway closure and the involvement of multiple law enforcement and emergency response agencies.

According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the incident began around 8:40 a.m. on June 11, 2025, when a trooper pulled over a southbound 2001 Mercedes-Benz CL2 near mile marker 130 for a window tint violation. During the stop, probable cause led troopers to conduct a search of the vehicle. During that search, officers located an item believed to be an explosive device.

Out of an abundance of caution, the Grand Forks Bomb Squad was called to the scene. In coordination with other local agencies, authorities closed southbound I-29 between Thompson (Exit 130) and Reynolds (Exit 123) at approximately 10:55 a.m. while the device was assessed.

By 12:10 p.m., bomb technicians had safely detonated the device on site. Law enforcement then used x-ray equipment and additional search methods to ensure no further threats were present in the vehicle. Evidence was collected from the scene, and the investigation is ongoing.

The driver of the vehicle, a 41-year-old man from Fargo, was cited for having no liability insurance and issued a warning for illegal window tint. Both he and his 42-year-old male passenger, also from Fargo, were arrested and charged with possession of an explosive device, a Class C felony under North Dakota law.

The southbound lanes of I-29 were reopened to the public by approximately 1:00 p.m.

Responding agencies included the North Dakota Highway Patrol, Grand Forks County Sheriff’s Office, Thompson Police Department, Grand Forks Bomb Squad (consisting of personnel from the Grand Forks Sheriff’s Office, Grand Forks Police Department, and University of North Dakota Police Department), as well as Reynolds Fire Department and Altru Ambulance.

Authorities have not released the identities of the suspects, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.