Explosions rock NE Portland neighborhood; man arrested

Authorities are investigating a possible explosion in Northeast Portland that led to a shelter-in-place notice Monday afternoon.

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – A man is in custody after explosions Monday morning and afternoon near Glendoveer Golf & Tennis.

Portland police were called to the area around 9:30 a.m. about a reported explosion. Then just before 1 p.m., they were called again over reports of a second explosion.

Neighbors in the area of 1900 NE 141st Avenue who spoke with KOIN 6 News said they heard the explosion that shook their homes around lunchtime in what is a normally quiet area. A few of them said they know the suspect, Stephen Filipelli.

Investigators said it appeared Filipelli tried blowing up his vehicle earlier Monday morning, when he then “left the scene in his car and returned hours later and caused a second explosion on the side of the road.”

"It was a big explosion that almost sounded like it was under my house," Jeanie Kleen said. "There was an element of firecracker sound to it, but it was more intense."

“Officers responded to the same general area this morning on reports of a loud explosion,” PPB spokesperson Mike Benner said. “They determined somebody’s vehicle exploded, but the vehicle and driver were no longer present. The vehicle and driver returned several hours later, generating the afternoon call for service.”

A woman who lives in the area and wanted to remain anonymous told KOIN 6 News Filipelli helped her with odd jobs when she needed it over the past six years.

"I wouldn't say I didn't see it coming," she said, "but I wasn't expecting all of this today."

A different neighbor said Filipelli "was here to pick up his dog that I've been caring for. He arrived, and his car was all messed up."

Although he's usually helpful, a third neighbor said, "I've had my suspicions."

All three told KOIN 6 News they didn't suspect Filipelli was capable of potentially using explosives.

"Very surprised. Very surprised at that particular behavior," one said.

After the explosion a shelter-in-place was put in effect for the area. Once Filipelli was arrested, the shelter-in-place was lifted.

The 62-year-old was booked into the Multnomah County Jail on two felony charges of possession of a destructive device plus three misdemeanors of disorderly conduct and mistreatment.