Man arrested for alleged possession of explosive device, assault on deputy 

A 31-year-old man was arrested at a gas station after an altercation with law enforcement personnel that led to the discovery of an improvised explosive device. 

A Thurston County Sheriff’s Office report stated a deputy responded to Larry’s Chevron on Highway 12 following reports of a suspicious person lying down on the ground.

Upon arrival, the deputy encountered Zachary John Konoske, of Rochester, who was acting aggressively. During the interaction, the deputy said Konoske displayed threatening behaviour. 

“As Zachary aggressively approached me he said “come on” and something to the effect of “let’s go." His chest was puffed up and his fist clinched,” the responding deputy stated in the report. 

The deputy took out his taser and was about to use it to de-escalate the situation when the man put his hands in the air and surrendered. 

After being taken into custody, a search of Konoske’s person revealed a taped cylindrical object with a fuse, which was identified as an improvised explosive device.  

The Washington State Patrol Bomb Squad responded to the scene and after checking the device, rendered it safe. 

Konoske was transported to Capital Medical Center in Olympia for a medical evaluation after showing signs of impairment. According to the report, he admitted to recent methamphetamine use.

The deputy reported that the suspect later became combative at the hospital and allegedly kicked his ankle as he was trying to restrain him.  

Konoske was brought to the Thurston County Corrections Facility and faces charges of third-degree assault and unlawful possession of explosives without a license.