Teenager Accused Of Selling Illegal Fireworks: Stamford Police

STAMFORD, CT — A Stamford teenager has been arrested for selling illegal fireworks on social media, according to Sgt. James Comstock, commander of the bomb squad for the Stamford Police Department.

On June 10, the Stamford Police Bomb Squad and the Narcotics & Organized Crime (NOC) Unit, along with the FBI, began an investigation into the sale of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) being sold on Facebook Marketplace within Stamford, after a concerned resident alerted police.

Comstock said authorities started a dialogue with the seller on Facebook messenger, and with the assistance of the NOC Unit, were able to identify the seller and his address on Virgil Street.

On June 18, police executed a search warrant at the residence and arrested Bryan Oceguera, 19, after seizing 30 IEDs that were advertised for sale on Facebook Marketplace for $30 each.

Police also seized two commercial grade display fireworks mortars, numerous illegal fireworks and various powders utilized to make energetic material. It was determined that Oceguera was mixing several different powders to create energetic material as a filler for the IEDs.

Oceguera was charged with the manufacturing of bombs, and possession of explosive display fireworks — both felonies. He also faces misdemeanor charges of possession of illegal consumer fireworks, and reckless endangerment. Bond was set at $25,000.

Police are asking that if anyone has purchased IEDs, fireworks or tubes from Oceguera, also known as "Chris Golden", through Facebook Marketplace, to contact the Stamford Police Bomb Squad at 203-977-4459.

Comstock said the items that were listed for sale are to be considered dangerous and could cause serious physical injuries.