20 year-old James Howell is the suspect taken into custody in Santa Monica after discovering an arsenal in his car that included explosive chemicals and assault rifles Sunday morning. The suspect told authorities that he was there for the Los Angeles Pride festival. Authorities received the tip from a concerned citizen who said the suspect knocked on their door and window, causing them to call.

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Officers conducted a traffic stop in the 1700 block of 11th Street after receiving the call from the citizen. Authorities made contact with Howell, who was sitting in a car registered to Indiana.

Police found three assault rifles, high-capacity magazines and ammunition, along with a 5-gallon bucket with chemicals capable of creating an explosive device in James Howell’s car. The bomb squad was called to the scene to render the car and the surrounding areas to make sure everything was safe. The police department is coordinating the investigation with the FBI.

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, adding that the arrest has no connection to the Orlando nightclub mass shooting that took place early Sunday morning.

According to police records, Howell is being held on $500,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday.

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Source: ABC 7