DES MOINES, Iowa — Des Moines police have arrested two brothers after locating an explosive device in a car earlier this week.
33-year-old Daniel Kashgen Hellmers and 34-year-old Timothy Jason Hellmers both face the following charges:
- Arson in the First Degree
- Possession Of Incendiary Or Explosive Device With Intent
In addition, Daniel is charged with two drug-related offenses and for carrying a gun as a felon.
Police began investigating just before 6 a.m. Tuesday when they responded to reports of a car fire on Hartford Avenue, according to a press release.
When they arrived, first responders found what looked like damage from an explosive device, but no fire.
Officers called in the DMPD Bomb Squad and arson investigators to further examine the evidence.
"Examination of evidence at the scene found debris consistent with an improvised explosive device, and damage to a vehicle consistent with an explosion," Des Moines police said in the press release.
Police identified Daniel as a suspect first and detained him during a traffic stop earlier this week. Investigators believe he knew the owner of the vehicle and targeted their car.
On Thursday evening, police located Timothy at a residence on Capitol Avenue. He was taken into custody without incident.
Police do not anticipate any other arrests in this investigation.