CSU Students Arrested for Explosives Possession
Authorities discovered incendiary materials in a campus dormitory following investigations into student activity.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Terrorism
Police in Fort Collins have arrested two Colorado State University students for the possession of explosive devices. The investigation follows a separate incident where a different student was shot by law enforcement after firing at a campus building.
Why it matters
The discovery of volatile materials and a shooting incident on campus have raised significant safety concerns for the university community. Officials are working to secure the area as the legal process against the suspects begins.
Brooks Bottenhorn faces a total of six charges, including Class 5 and Class 6 felonies, while Evan Busch and Charles Weicher were apprehended for possession of incendiary devices found in a dorm.
The players
Brooks Bottenhorn
He is a student at Colorado State University who was shot by police after firing at a campus building.
Charles Weicher
He is a Colorado State University student arrested by police for the possession of explosive or incendiary devices.
Evan Busch
He is a Colorado State University student arrested for the possession of explosive or incendiary devices.
Larimer County District Attorney
This office is the local authority responsible for filing criminal charges against individuals involved in the reported incidents.
The details
Police discovered a glass jar of suspected napalm in a ceiling duct and materials including aluminum powder and black iron oxide in dormitory unit 1220. These findings followed reports of suspicious materials and an armed confrontation at the microbiology building.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: A shooting occurred at the microbiology building and an initial explosives report was filed.
October 15, 2026: Police arrested Evan Busch.
October 16, 2026: The Larimer County District Attorney filed criminal charges against Brooks Bottenhorn.
Legal Context
These arrests and subsequent charges reflect an aggressive enforcement approach to campus safety protocols in the wake of violent threats. This aligns with the institutional response to recent security incidents at Colorado State University.
Residents and students in Fort Collins should remain alert for potential updates regarding campus safety measures and police activity. Authorities have focused efforts on securing campus dormitories and academic buildings following these serious reports.
The takeaway
Safety protocols on university campuses are strictly enforced to prevent the manufacturing of hazardous materials in residential housing. Students are encouraged to report any suspicious materials or behaviors to university authorities immediately.
Further reading
For more information on regional safety, visit the Fort Collins Terrorism page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Boulder Weekly.
