Two arrested after explosive found in Parsons storage unit
A duo from Parsons, Kansas, are in custody after an apparent explosive device was found in a storage unit Tuesday evening. Read the full press release below:
On October 11th 2022 at approximately 1924 hours, Labette Co. Deputy Timothy Gilliland, was dispatched to 3803 West Main St, in Parsons, for a report of a black SUV driving through the area. Parsons Police department was asked to respond for agency assist.
When Parsons Police Sgt. Adamson arrived on scene, he located the Black SUV and made contact with three individuals. Sgt Adamson observed the individuals coming out of a storage unit that did not belong to them.
Sgt. Adamson collected the names and date of births of all three individuals. The individuals were identified as Holly Rebecca Vanwinkle, Daniel Lee Mitchell and Randall Dean Baer. Vanwinkle and Mitchell both had active warrants, and were placed under arrest at this time.
While conducting a search of a backpack Deputy Gilliland found a metal pipe approximately 3 inches in length with a metal cap on one side and tape on the other. At this time, the pipe was removed, and the Kansas Highway Patrol bomb squad was contacted for assistance.
Once KHP arrived on scene and examined the device, and determined the device is an explosive. K.H.P. collected the pipe and the power inside.
During the investigation, Labette Co. Sheriff’s vehicle received damage from Mitchell breaking the passenger rear door panel, preventing the door from opening, along with damage to the driver’s side rear door, which was bent.
Mitchell was placed under arrest for his warrants, and is also charged with criminal damage, criminal use of explosive and attempted Aggravated escape from custody. Mitchell was transported to the Labette County Jail.
Vanwinkle was arrested for her warrants, and charged with possession of methamphetamine and use/possession of drug paraphernalia found in her purse. Vanwinkle was also transported to the Labette County Jail for incarceration.