John P. Marsh, 21, of Midpines, California, was arrested on suspicion of arson, aggravated assault, and obstructing a peace officer. Detectives continue to investigate, and additional charges are possible

March 10, 2026 - Kootenai County, Idaho — Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office officials report on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at approximately 1:15 p.m., the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) received a report that a backpack had exploded during a gold mining event at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds.

Deputies learned that two vendors involved in the event appeared to be in a dispute on Saturday, March 7, 2026. On Sunday, March 8, 2026, the son of one of the vendors approached the other vendor and threw a backpack under the vendor’s table. The backpack caught fire and was quickly picked up and thrown outside the building, where it continued to burn.

KCSO deputies and officers from the Coeur d’Alene Police Department arrived and detained the suspect without further incident. No injuries were reported, and the event was able to continue.

The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue responded to the scene and rendered the backpack safe. Investigators located additional accelerants inside the bag that did not appear to ignite.

Because the vendors are staying at a hotel in the City of Coeur d’Alene, the Coeur d’Alene Police Department is assisting with the investigation.

John P. Marsh, 21, of Midpines, California, was arrested on suspicion of arson, aggravated assault, and obstructing a peace officer. Detectives continue to investigate, and additional charges are possible.

Due to the nature of the incident, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has been contacted and will assist with the investigation.

Source: Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Robert B. Norris

By: Lieutenant Mark Ellis

KCSO Report# 26-08653