Blog

BREAKING: Pipe Bomb Suspect in Colchester Incident Now in Federal Custody

By Michael Donoghue | Vermont News First

BURLINGTON, VT — Federal authorities have taken custody of Justin L. Perkins, 40, in connection with a pipe bomb incident that shut down Pearl Street for over seven hours on Sunday, Aug. 24. Perkins had previously pleaded not guilty in Vermont Superior Court to possession of a destructive device related to a Colchester construction site incident earlier this month.

Court records show that as of August 22, Perkins is now in federal custody. No federal charges have been publicly filed yet, but a sealed complaint is possible. A writ will be required if Perkins is to appear again in state court.

The incident began when Perkins allegedly brought a homemade pipe bomb to a job site on Dylan Avenue in Colchester on Aug. 14, asking coworkers to detonate it in a nearby sand pit. Witnesses described the device as 9–12 inches long and resembling a water bottle. Police say it contained black powder inside PVC pipe and was constructed using instructions from a military munitions handbook.

On Sunday, authorities responded to a suspicious package at an apartment at 90 Pearl Street, where Perkins had recently stayed. The report prompted a citywide response, including the Vermont State Police Bomb Squad, Burlington Fire Department, and the Hazardous Materials Response Team. Pearl Street was closed from 3:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. as officials removed suspected explosive materials.

Perkins’ recent behavior raised concerns among coworkers, with reports of erratic demeanor, suspected drug use, and troubling statements about making ghost guns and munitions. One colleague said he was seeking a grenade launcher.

Court records show Perkins has a lengthy criminal record:

• 15 felony charges (1 conviction)

• 43 misdemeanor charges (9 convictions)

• Multiple assault and court violation charges

The investigation remains active. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Colchester Police or Burlington authorities.

Photo: Burlington Fire Department ladder truck reaches toward a fourth-floor apartment at 90 Pearl Street

BREAKING: Scott Kastner Identified as Victim in Fatal Beating at Burlington City Hall Park

Scott Kastner, 42, of Burlington, has been identified as the man who died following a brutal assault on August 11 at City Hall Park. The attack, allegedly carried out in broad daylight by three juveniles aged 14–16, occurred around 1:30 p.m. and was witnessed by Burlington police officers on foot patrol, who intervened and apprehended the suspects.

Kastner succumbed to his injuries five days later, on August 16, at the University of Vermont Medical Center. His identity was confirmed by Burlington police on Tuesday, 10 days after his death, following the release of an obituary from a Pittsfield, MA funeral home. He leaves behind four children.

One suspect reportedly displayed a firearm during the assault. The accused are facing confidential juvenile proceedings in Vermont Family Court, which officials note offer limited accountability due to the state’s underdeveloped rehabilitation services for youth offenders. Additional arrests are expected.

Kastner’s funeral will be held Saturday, Sept. 6 at 11:30 a.m. at the Unity Terrace at Dwyer-Wellington Funeral Home, 220 East Street, Pittsfield, MA.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Detective Zach Beal at zbeal@bpdvt.org or (802) 540-2364.

That’s a powerful and honest opening—raw with emotion, and it sets the tone with grace. If you’re sharing heartbreaking news, here’s a gently refined version that keeps your voice while offering clarity and compassion:

I wish there were a way to adequately preface this news—but for many of you, the shock has already settled in.

Yes, it’s true. My heart is broken.
And I’m so sorry for every heart that will break reading this now.

Jim,

This is one of the hardest times of my life. As humans, we take so many things for granted without even realizing it.

Baby, you were my life—my love, my dream come true. I will forever cherish all the memories we made together and hold them tightly in my heart, just like I always have.

Until we meet again, I’ll visit you in my dreams. I will love you for eternity.

UPDATE: The San Antonio Police Department has identified the three officers involved in the fatal shooting of a man during a mental health call late Saturday night. Authorities state the incident is under active investigation, and bodycam footage is expected to be reviewed as part of the standard protocol.

More details to follow as the investigation develops.

ALERT: Jasper Police Searching for Armed and Dangerous Shooting Suspect

Jasper Police are actively searching for a suspect involved in a shooting on Devon Drive. Authorities warn that the individual is armed and dangerous. Residents in the area are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately.

A teenager riding an electric scooter has been charged with attempted murder in connection to a July shooting in Chicago. For full details, read more here: [bit.ly/4oVgAAH]

BREAKING: The Basketball World Mourns the Loss of Dennis Rodman

Dennis Rodman, the legendary Chicago Bulls forward known for his fierce defense, vibrant personality, and boundary-pushing style, was found deceased in his apartment earlier today. Authorities have confirmed the cause of death was an accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, a reminder of the fragility behind even the most vivacious lives.

Fans, teammates, and basketball enthusiasts worldwide are mourning the sudden loss of a Hall of Famer whose charisma and spirit transcended the sport. Dennis was a complex and unforgettable figure, whose impact on and off the court left an indelible mark on basketball and popular culture alike.

As the world processes this heartbreaking news, tributes continue to pour in, honoring a man who lived life on his own terms and inspired countless people. Rest easy, Dennis Rodman—your legend will live forever.

Her daughter was only 16 when she asked to go to a party with her mom. Lisandra could never have imagined that she would witness her daughter’s death that very night. Now, as she faces the unimaginable, she struggles to hold back tears while confronting those responsible for the loss of her precious little girl.

Her daughter was only 16 when she asked to go to a party with her mom. Lisandra could never have imagined that she would witness her daughter’s death that very night. Now, she struggles to hold back the tears as she looks at the faces of those responsible for her little girl’s loss.

“When a mother cries, we all cry.”

This tragic moment reminds us all of the profound impact of violence and the grief it leaves behind.