FBI: Suspect in Santa Monica synagogue explosion linked to bomb evidence

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The FBI said evidence found near the scene of an explosion Thursday next to a Santa Monica synagogue was linked to an "extremely dangerous" suspect now being sought in the blast.

The explosion was first believed to be an accident. But "technicians and detectives conducted further forensic analysis at the scene and, after unearthing much of the large portion of the cement found, uncovered materials indicating that the device appeared to have been deliberately constructed," the FBI said in a statement. "Investigation has determined that items found in and around the mechanism are linked to an individual by the name of Ron Hirsch, identified as a transient."

Law enforcement sources told The Times that gun powder was among the items found in the explosive device. Officials have not said exactly how they linked the evidence inside the explosive device to the suspect.

Hirsch, 60, also known as Israel Fisher, is thought to be behind Thursday morning's blast outside Chabad House on 17th Street between Broadway Street and Santa Monica Boulevard. Police described Hirsch as a transient.

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http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2011/04/fbi-suspect-in-santa-monica-synagogue-explosion-linked-to-bomb-making-materials.html