January 19, 2024 - Imperial County Sheriff's Office officials report that on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, Imperial County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a residence north of Niland on Hot Mineral Spa Road in reference to a domestic violence incident. Upon arrival, deputies contacted the victim and subsequently conducted a search of the residence in an attempt to locate the suspect, Buck Blevins (43), who had fled the scene prior to the arrival of deputies. The victim had minor injuries and refused medical treatment. The victim was provided with information and resources for victims of domestic violence. During the search for Blevins, deputies found military ordnance, including bomb parts, grenades, and live ammunition. 

Deputies contacted base personnel from Camp Billy Machen, bomb squad personnel from the Imperial County Fire Department, and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) specialists from the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma to assist with the case. Gunpowder, explosive material, detonation cord, blasting caps, and several firearms were located during a search of the property.

Deputies and personnel from the ICSO Scientific Investigations Unit will continue processing the scene with the assistance of EOD specialists to ensure the military ordnance and explosive materials are disposed of in a safe manner. We request that the public avoid the area during this investigation for safety reasons.

If you have any information on the whereabouts of Buck Blevins, please contact the Sheriff's Office at 442-265-2021.

The Imperial County Sheriff's Office would like to thank all participating agencies for their assistance in this case and their continued efforts in keeping our communities safe.

Source & photos: Imperial County Sheriff's Office