ATF Offers $10K Reward After Explosive Devices Found in Carson National Forest

Federal investigators are offering a cash reward following the discovery of multiple destructive devices inside the Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico. According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the improvised explosive and incendiary items were recovered across multiple locations over a four-month period.

Carson National Forest Device Recoveries

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for placing the devices. Between April 2 and May 8, 2026, multiple suspected destructive devices were recovered near the Tres Piedras Ranger Station in Tres Piedras, New Mexico, according to federal records. An additional device was later recovered on August 10, 2026, after a concerned citizen found it and turned it in to the Canjilon Ranger Station in Canjilon, New Mexico.

Forest Service and local law enforcement agencies, who subsequently requested assistance from the ATF Phoenix Field Division. ATF Certified Explosives Specialists and Certified Fire Investigators deployed to the scenes to collect evidence. That physical evidence is currently undergoing forensic examination at the ATF Forensic Science Laboratory, establishing the agency as the lead investigating authority working alongside local and federal partners.

Public Safety Warnings and Handling Risks

Federal officials issued strict safety warnings regarding the instability of the recovered items. According to the ATF, improvised explosive and incendiary devices are extremely unstable and carry a high risk of causing severe injury or property damage. The agency strongly cautions members of the public never to touch, move, or handle any suspicious objects encountered outdoors.

How to Submit Tips to the ATF

Law enforcement is actively seeking community assistance to identify those responsible for the placement of the devices in the Carson National Forest. Individuals with relevant information can contact the ATF tip line at (888) 283-8477 or submit details via email to ATFTips@atf.gov. Anonymous tips are also accepted through the online portal at www.atf.gov/contact/atftips or via the Reportit mobile application available on Google Play and the Apple App Store.