Key facts
- Kimani Osayande Jones arrested at Sacramento International Airport with an explosive device.
- Device found in carry-on luggage during TSA screening.
- Jones carried five cellphones, one with a timer and another with a cryptic message.
- Bomb technicians determined the explosive device was viable.
- Jones had previously contacted the FBI reporting threats and surveillance.
Kimani Osayande Jones, 49, of Sacramento, California, faces federal charges after allegedly attempting to pass through security at Sacramento International Airport with an explosive device in his carry-on luggage on May 30. Jones was preparing to board American Airlines Flight 2464 to Charlotte, North Carolina. According to court documents, he was wearing a face covering and gloves when he approached the TSA checkpoint. A search of his backpack revealed an M-type explosive device, a torch lighter, a knife, scissors, an aerosol can, and zip ties. The device was described as a brown cylindrical object with a green fuse, containing approximately 9.29 grams of powder. Bomb technicians determined the device was viable and could cause serious injury or damage to an aircraft. Jones initially denied ownership of the backpack after being told he could not discard the explosive. He was arrested, and the area was secured by bomb technicians. Investigators also found five cellphones, all with taped cameras; one displayed a timer, and another showed a message from an unidentified number stating, "we will be awaiting your call." Court records indicate Jones had contacted the FBI multiple times since March, reporting threats and surveillance. If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison.