While much of law enforcement’s work is focused on preventing attacks, officials say understanding the aftermath is just as important.
SAN ANTONIO — Law enforcement agencies across Texas are training for what happens after an explosion – when the scene is chaotic, but critical evidence may still be hiding in plain sight.
During a training held Monday on the city’s south side, bomb technicians and investigators focused on post-blast response, learning how to turn destruction into clues that can help track down suspects.
“This class is used as a way to combat terrorism and the criminal use of explosives in Texas,” said Travis Gates, a special agent bomb technician with the Texas Explosives Taskforce and the ATF Houston Field Division.
While much of law enforcement’s work is focused on preventing attacks, officials say understanding the aftermath is just as important.
Investigators pointed to cases like the Austin serial bombings, where evidence recovered from blast scenes played a key role in identifying how devices were built and ultimately advancing the investigation.
“It led to recovery components of the device, identifying that device, and how it was built,” said Mike Weddel, special agent in charge of the ATF Houston Field Division.
During the training, controlled explosions demonstrated how even small amounts of explosives – as little as half a pound – can cause significant damage. But beyond the destruction, each blast leaves behind a trail.
“With this, they’re able to see the effects of the explosives, the reports, the color of the smoke, and different signatures,” Gates said.
All of that helps track down and arrest a suspect.
Investigators are trained to look for even the smallest details: fragments of wiring, power sources, or triggering mechanisms.
“How was it triggered? Was it a garage door opener? A battery?” Weddel said. “All those little components come together to identify the type of device and point us in the right direction.”
Officials say the goal is simple: ensure that even after an explosion, the evidence left behind can help bring those responsible to justice.