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Norwalk Police Chief Thomas Kulhawik and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent-In-Charge Brian C. Turner announced late Thursday afternoon, Aug. 15 that Brandon Wagshol of Bedford Avenue in Norwalk was arrested and charged with four counts of illegal possession of large-capacity magazines.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation National Threat Operations Center (NTOC) received a tip that Wagshol was attempting to purchase large capacity rifle magazines from out of state.
The FBI and the Norwalk Police Department began a joint investigation based upon that information.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Wagshol was buying rifle parts online in an attempt to build his own rifle, Norwalk Police said.
Wagshol had made a Facebook post that showed his interest in committing a mass shooting, police said.
Based on the investigation, a risk search warrant was issued for Wagshol and his residence.
During the evening of Wednesday, Aug. 14, Wagshol was detained by Special Services Officers outside of his residence, police said.
The warrant was then executed by members of the Emergency Services Unit Tactical Response Team.
During a search of the residence, officers seized a .40 caliber handgun, .22 caliber rifle, rifle scope with laser, 4- firearm optic sites, firearm flashlight, numerous .40 caliber, .22 caliber and .300 Blackout rounds of ammunition, body armor with a titanium plate, camouflage shirt, pant and belt, ballistic helmet, tactical gloves, camouflage bag and computers.
The firearms are registered to Wagshol’s father who lives at the residence, but they were accessible to Wagshol. Wagshol is being held on $250,000 bond and will appear in the Norwalk Court on Friday, Aug. 16.
“We are thankful for our partnership with the FBI and fantastic teamwork that quickly brought this investigation from a tip to an arrest” said Kulhawik. “I applaud the excellent work of our officers and the FBI agents that assisted and remind people, if they see something, say something.”
“Today’s arrest demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to working closely with our local law enforcement partners to mitigate this type of threat to our area,” said Turner. “With our local partners we gather, share and act upon threat information as it comes to our attention.
"As in this case, a tip from a vigilant citizen helped the FBI and the Norwalk Police Department disrupt a potentially dangerous situation. We continue to urge the public to please remain alert and to report to law enforcement any suspicious activity that is observed either in person or online. We thank the Norwalk Police Department for their partnership in resolving this matter.”
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