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A routine traffic stop in Key West, in Monroe County, ended with the discovery of a dangerous arsenal and a potentially lethal plan.
Vincent Vega, 39 years old, a former firefighter from the Key West Fire Department, was arrested after being caught speeding and carrying an illegally modified AR-15 rifle.
What began as a minor traffic violation led to the discovery of a homemade bomb and an impressive stash of weapons and explosives, according to reports from the Miami Herald.
Although it has only come to light now, the arrest took place on March 14, when police officials detected that Vega was driving at nearly 112 km/h in a zone where the speed limit was 48 km/h.
During the stop, the officers easily spotted a loaded AR-15 rifle with a shortened barrel measuring only 19 cm (7.5 inches), a weapon regulated by the National Firearms Act; this means that it requires a registration and a tax stamp for legal possession.
During the traffic stop, Vega admitted to having modified the rifle and lacking the necessary documentation.
However, he also showed signs of alcohol consumption, so he was arrested immediately for possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle and open carry of a firearm.
A hidden arsenal in his apartment
The situation escalated hours later when the police obtained a search warrant for his apartment located on Fourth Street in Key West.
What was found there alarmed both local and federal authorities: a total of 20 firearms of various calibers, around 10,000 rounds of ammunition, a homemade bomb made from a PVC pipe and a red fuse, 900 grams of gunpowder, and multiple chemical and electronic components for making explosives.
Among the confiscated materials were potassium chlorate (a powerful oxidizer used in the production of explosives and fireworks), aluminum shavings, digital scales, magnifying glasses, and trays containing pennies, nickels, and quarters.
The investigators also found a "Guideline for Explosives Research", a Faraday bag to block electromagnetic signals, and five cell phones inside it.
The most concerning finding was a detailed sketch of an unidentified building, which included a possible sniper position and notes on how to use mortars to “propel metal objects at high speed.”
Plans for critical infrastructure
The police also discovered detailed diagrams of all the water pumping stations in Key West, which increased the authorities' concerns regarding Vega's possible intentions.
Due to the hazardous nature of the materials found, agents evacuated all residents within a 300-foot radius of the apartment, while the bomb squad from the Monroe County Sheriff's Office secured the scene.
Days later, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) determined that the seized items "could be easily assembled to form a destructive device" that "meets the legal definition of an explosive bomb," according to federal law.
So far, Vega remains in the Monroe County jail. A bail of 1.7 million dollars has been set for him.
He is charged with manufacturing or attempting to manufacture a destructive device, illegal possession of a short-barreled rifle, and open carry of a firearm.
Vega was a member of the Key West Fire Department from 2014 to 2023. According to department spokesperson Alyson Crean, information regarding the reasons for his departure is not yet available.
For now, the investigation remains open and is being jointly led by the Key West police and the ATF.
Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact (305) 809-1000.
Frequently asked questions about the case of Vincent Vega and his arrest in Key West
Who is Vincent Vega and why was he arrested?
Vincent Vega is a 39-year-old ex-firefighter from the Key West Fire Department who was arrested for speeding and illegally possessing a modified AR-15 rifle. During the investigation, it was discovered that he had an arsenal of weapons, explosives, and plans for potential attacks.
What type of weapons and explosives were found in Vincent Vega's apartment?
In Vega's apartment, 20 firearms of various calibers were found, approximately 10,000 rounds of ammunition, a homemade bomb, 900 grams of gunpowder, and components for the production of explosives. Detailed diagrams of critical infrastructure in Key West were also discovered.
What charges is Vincent Vega facing?
Vincent Vega faces charges of manufacturing or attempting to manufacture a destructive device, illegal possession of a short-barreled rifle, and open carry of a firearm. Additionally, he was subjected to a bail amount of $1.7 million.
What measures did the authorities take following the discovery of Vega's arsenal?
The authorities evacuated residents within a 300-foot radius of Vega's apartment and the bomb squad from the Monroe County Sheriff's Office secured the scene. The situation was deemed dangerous enough to warrant the intervention of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
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