Reedsport, Oregon — A routine traffic stop in Reedsport escalated into a major law enforcement response after officers discovered multiple firearms, methamphetamine, and a suspected explosive device inside a vehicle, according to local authorities.
Police say the incident occurred around 10 p.m. on April 1 near the intersection of 11th Street and Highway 101. An officer stopped a black Toyota 4Runner after noticing suspicious behavior from the driver.
The driver, identified in court records as 35-year-old Tana Leah Rich, informed officers that she was carrying a concealed handgun. She was immediately detained for unlawful possession of a firearm.
During the stop, a K9 unit named Snow arrived to assist with the investigation. Before a full vehicle search began, Rich reportedly admitted to having methamphetamine in her purse and disclosed that additional firearms were inside the vehicle.
After obtaining consent to search, officers located four more guns concealed in the back of the SUV. Authorities also recovered approximately 9.5 grams of suspected methamphetamine along with several syringes from Rich’s purse.
While continuing the search, officers discovered a suspicious cylindrical object inside a bag in the backseat. The item was removed and secured, and Rich allegedly told police she believed it could be a hand grenade.
Due to the potential threat, officers contacted the Oregon State Police Bomb Squad. A portion of Highway 101 was temporarily shut down as a precaution while the area was secured.
Bomb technicians from the Central Point unit arrived at approximately 3:30 a.m. on April 2 and safely took control of the suspected explosive device. Once authorities confirmed the scene was secure, the highway was reopened to traffic.
Rich was transported to the Douglas County Jail, where she faces multiple charges. These include unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of prohibited firearms, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Officials say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be filed as more details emerge.
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