Bomb Found in Car During Springfield, MO Traffic Stop

Police say they have arrested a man after an improvised explosive device was found in his vehicle during a routine traffic stop in Springfield.

The Springfield News-Leader reports a 42-year-old man was arrested Tuesday and faces a charge of unlawful possession of an illegal weapon. He is being held on $75,000 bond.

Authorities say the suspect had been pulled over by a Springfield officer. According to court documents, the officer saw a suspected IED in the vehicle. The documents say the officer's suspicions were later confirmed by Fire Marshal Bill Spence and another officer, who are both certified bomb technicians.

According to court documents, the device contained coins intended as shrapnel and was "capable of causing severe physical injury or death." Assistant Fire Chief Randy Villines said the device has been dismantled and the parts are in storage.