A routine traffic stop in Key West, Monroe County, led to the discovery of a dangerous arsenal and a potentially deadly plot. Vincent Vega, a 39-year-old former firefighter with the Key West Fire Department, was apprehended after being caught speeding and carrying an illegally modified AR-15 rifle. What started as a mere traffic violation quickly escalated into the revelation of a homemade bomb and an impressive stockpile of weapons and explosives, as reported by the Miami Herald.
Although the incident has only recently come to light, the arrest occurred on March 14. On that day, police officers spotted Vega driving at nearly 70 mph (112 km/h) in a zone where the speed limit was 30 mph (48 km/h). During the stop, officers immediately noticed a loaded AR-15 rifle with a barrel shortened to just 7.5 inches (19 cm), a firearm regulated under the National Firearms Act, meaning it requires registration and a tax stamp for legal ownership. Vega admitted to modifying the rifle and not having the necessary documentation. Additionally, he showed signs of alcohol consumption, leading to his immediate arrest for possessing an unregistered short-barreled rifle and open carrying of a firearm.
A Hidden Arsenal Uncovered
The situation intensified hours later when police obtained a search warrant for his apartment on Fourth Street in Key West. What they found alarmed both local and federal authorities: 20 firearms of various calibers, approximately 10,000 rounds of ammunition, a homemade bomb constructed with a PVC pipe and red fuse, 900 grams of gunpowder, and several chemical and electronic components for making explosives.
Among the seized materials were potassium chlorate (a potent oxidizer used in explosives and fireworks), aluminum shavings, digital scales, magnifying glasses, and trays filled with pennies, nickels, and quarters. Investigators also found an "Explosives Investigation Guide," a Faraday bag meant to block electromagnetic signals, and five cell phones inside.
Unsettling Plans and Blueprints
Perhaps most concerning was a detailed sketch of an unidentified building, including a potential sniper position and notes on using mortar-like devices to "propel metallic objects at high speed." Police also uncovered detailed diagrams of all water pumping stations in Key West, raising further alarm about Vega's possible intentions.
Due to the dangerous nature of the materials discovered, police evacuated all residents within a 300-foot radius of the apartment while the Monroe County Sheriff's Office bomb squad secured the scene. Days later, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) concluded that the seized items "could readily be assembled to form a destructive device" that "meets the legal definition of an explosive bomb," under federal law.
As of now, Vega remains in custody at the Monroe County Jail with a bond set at $1.7 million. He faces charges including the manufacture or attempted manufacture of a destructive device, illegal possession of a short-barreled rifle, and open carrying of a firearm. Vega served with the Key West Fire Department from 2014 to 2023. The department's spokesperson, Alyson Crean, confirmed that the reasons for his departure are currently unavailable.
The investigation is ongoing, led jointly by Key West police and the ATF. Authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact (305) 809-1000.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Arrest in Key West
What led to Vincent Vega's arrest?
Vincent Vega was arrested following a routine traffic stop where he was found speeding and carrying an illegally modified AR-15 rifle.
What was found in Vincent Vega's apartment?
Police discovered 20 firearms, approximately 10,000 rounds of ammunition, a homemade bomb, and numerous components for making explosives in Vega's apartment.
What charges is Vincent Vega facing?
Vega is charged with the manufacture or attempted manufacture of a destructive device, illegal possession of a short-barreled rifle, and open carrying of a firearm.