Office of Public Affairs
August 7, 2015

FBI Media Alert: $20,000 Reward Announced, Video of Person of Interest Released in Las Cruces Church Bombing Case

The FBI and its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners investigating the explosions at two Las Cruces churches announced two significant developments in the case Friday.

The FBI said it is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the explosions that went off within 22 minutes of each other at Calvary Baptist Church and Holy Cross Catholic Church on August 2, 2015.

Nobody was injured in either explosion, and the resulting damage was minor. It is likely the explosions were related.

Investigators also released a video of a person of interest. The 20-second video above shows an adult male walking through the parking lot of Calvary Baptist Church, around the time of the explosion at that church.

The man appears to be wearing a dark blue short-sleeved T-shirt, plaid shorts, and hiking boots. He is carrying a package or bag.

Authorities believe this person could have information regarding the explosion at Calvary Baptist Church.

Anyone who recognizes this person, recalls seeing something suspicious, or knows anything about the explosions is urged to call the 24/7 toll-free phone number for tips: 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

“The freedom of people in the United States to assemble in their chosen places of worship is one of the most precious liberties we enjoy in this country,” said Carol Lee, Special Agent in Charge of the Albuquerque FBI Division. “Nobody has the right to interfere with or try to intimidate those who exercise that liberty. The FBI is working closely with our law enforcement partners to find those responsible for these criminal acts.”