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On November 13th, Piero’s Italian Cuisine Restaurant, located at 355 Convention Center Drive, was targeted by suspects who left an explosive at the business’s front door. Now, a Clark County grand jury has indicted at least three individuals who they believe are responsible for the incident.
Among those indicted are John Navarro, Sarah Hernandez, and Phillip Gonzales. All three suspects were formally indicted on Thursday, November 20th. They are facing several charges, including first-degree arson, manufacturing or possessing an explosive or incendiary device, and conspiracy to commit first-degree arson.
A fourth, unidentified suspect has not been caught.
According to police reports, Navarro and the fourth suspect arrived at Piero’s at around 2 A.M. One of the suspects was reportedly traveling on foot, and the other suspect was on a scooter. One of the individuals approached the front door of Piero’s, placed a package near the front door, and lit a fuse.
At that point, both suspects fled the scene. Moments later, the package exploded.
Prosecutors say Navarro’s phone was in the vicinity of the restaurant at the time of the incident. They also discovered surveillance footage that showed him driving a red Nissan in a nearby area. Earlier in the day, Navarro was pulled over at a traffic stop while driving the same vehicle.
Prosecutors connected Gonzales to the crime because his DNA was found on components of the bomb. That said, they don’t believe he was physically present for the explosion or delivery of the bomb. Both Hernandez and Gonzales are accused of going to a fireworks store in Moapa together to purchase the supplies they’d later use to make the bomb. The two individuals are a couple, but Hernandez is also the mother of the suspect, who has not been arrested yet.
Police say electronic device records suggest that this bombing incident was part of a “bigger conspiracy.” No one was injured in the incident, but the explosion could’ve easily caused more damage and chaos if it had been set off during the day.
In Las Vegas, first-degree arson is defined as intentionally setting fire to an occupied structure. This type of offense is considered a Class B felony, which comes with severe penalties of anywhere from two to 15 years in prison. A conviction can also result in fines of up to $15,000 and court-ordered restitution payments. Further, a felony conviction can lead to life-long consequences when it comes to employment and housing opportunities. Convicted felons also have restricted rights. They are not able to carry or possess firearms, vote, or hold public office.
The only way to avoid these consequences is to prevent a conviction from coming to pass. To do that, you’ll want a strong criminal defense attorney by your side if you get accused of committing a crime in Vegas. Here at LV Criminal Defense, our team can help you determine your best defense strategy and advocate for you throughout the entire process.
Schedule a free phone call and case evaluation by leaving your contact details on our online form.
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