Tyler Police and Fire Departments Investigate Mailbox Explosions

TYLER — Three mailbox explosions have Tyler police and fire officials seeking clues. At around 6:30 Saturday evening, Tyler 911 began receiving calls from residents saying that their mailboxes had been destroyed by explosions. Both the Tyler Police and Fire Departments responded to two different locations and found mailboxes that had been destroyed. It is believed that a firework called an �artillery shell� was ignited and then placed into the mailboxes. Once the firework exploded, the mailboxes were severely damaged and the ground caught on fire. Tyler Police and Fire also responded to another home where the grass was on fire but the mailbox was not destroyed.

In these cases a black, green, or dark-colored extended cab truck, possibly a Chevrolet, was observed leaving the area occupied by three people. Witnesses stated that the truck possibly had round-style tail lights and appeared to be a 2004-2008 model. It is believed that this same vehicle is connected to all three of the cases. It is also believed that there are more destroyed mailboxes that have not been reported at this time. If you find that your mailbox has been destroyed, you’re asked to contact your local agency to make a report.

Authorities are asking for assistance in identifying the truck and the occupants. Anyone with information about the suspects involved in this crime is urged to contact the Tyler Police Department, at 903-531-1000, or Crimestoppers, at 903-597-CUFF (903-597-2833). Crimestoppers will pay up to $1,000 for information that leads to arrests and charges filed against the suspects in this or any felony case.