Authorities in Vero Beach are reviewing an incident involving a local resident after deputies observed unusual activity behind a home in the Westfield neighborhood off 16th Street. According to officials, a deputy on routine patrol noticed what appeared to be bright projectiles coming from a backyard area near several homes and a nearby youth camp.
Sheriff Eric Flowers told media outlets that the situation prompted an immediate response due to concerns for public safety, especially given the proximity to residential properties. No injuries were reported.
Investigators later approached the residence and took the homeowner, identified by officials as Brandon Harnois, into custody for further questioning. A search of the property was conducted, and authorities say they located various items that required additional review by state and federal agencies, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sheriff Flowers stated that Harnois had prior restrictions regarding certain possessions and that the discovery of additional items prompted investigators to secure multiple search warrants for a business and storage units linked to him. Officials reported recovering additional materials, including protective gear, from those locations.
At a subsequent press conference, authorities outlined several preliminary charges related to the incident, noting that the investigation remains active and that additional state and federal charges are possible as evidence continues to be evaluated.
Officials also said that nearby property damage had been reported and that utility crews were assessing impacts to local infrastructure. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities expect to release more information as reviews are completed.
