Bomb Threat Investigation Leads to Multiple Charges at Gridlife Festival

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, at approximately 11:00 p.m., deputies with the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office responded to Gingerman Raceway during the Gridlife racing and music festival following reports of a disruptive individual making threats on the event grounds.

Event security personnel advised deputies that a male subject, who had previously been removed from the venue, had returned and was making alarming statements. Upon arrival, deputies detained the individual and began an investigation.

Security staff reported that the suspect, later identified as a 35-year-old male from Plymouth, Indiana, returned to the facility carrying a black bag. The male allegedly placed the bag near the music stage and informed security personnel that it contained a bomb, further claiming that the device had gone undetected by the event’s explosive detection dogs. When the suspect attempted to retrieve the bag, security personnel intervened and detained him until law enforcement arrived.

Deputies searched the bag and determined that it did not contain any explosive materials. During the investigation, deputies located a white powdery substance that field-tested positive for Ketamine. Suspected LSD was also recovered from the individual’s possession.

While being placed under arrest, the suspect actively resisted deputies but was ultimately secured without further incident.

The male was lodged at the Van Buren County Jail on charges including False Report of a Terrorist Threat, False Report of a Bomb Threat, Possession of Ketamine, Resisting and Obstructing Police Officers, and Criminal Trespass.