After over two decades evading authorities, Daniel Andreas San Diego, a fugitive on the FBI's Most Wanted Terrorists list, has been apprehended in Wales. San Diego was sought for his alleged connection to two bombings in California during the early 2000s, targeting biotechnology and nutritional product companies. FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized the agency's commitment to pursuing justice, regardless of the time elapsed, stating that individuals will be held responsible for acts of violence and property destruction.
The arrest, a collaborative effort between the FBI and UK authorities, concludes a lengthy pursuit of San Diego, who carried a reward of up to $250,000 for information leading to his capture. Originally placed on the Most Wanted Terrorists list in 2009, San Diego, now 46, was indicted in 2004 by the United States District Court, Northern District of California, in connection with the bombings.
The first bombing occurred on August 28, 2003, at a biotechnology corporation in Emeryville, California. A second bombing followed on September 26, 2003, at a nutritional products company in Pleasanton. The latter device was reportedly laden with nails. The FBI identifies San Diego as having connections to animal rights extremist groups and describes him as a vegan, former computer network specialist with LINUX experience, and possessing skills in sailing and international travel. He is also known to have a handgun and a distinctive tattoo on his chest depicting burning hillsides accompanied by the phrase "it only takes a spark."
The charges against San Diego include Maliciously Damaging and Destroying, Attempting to Destroy and Damage by Means of Explosives, and Possession of a Destructive Device during and in relation to a crime of violence.
