A 54-year-old man from Everett, Washington, is facing federal charges related to a pipe bomb explosion that damaged a neighbor's vehicle during New Year's Eve. The U.S. District Court in Seattle is set to host Steven Goldstine for his initial appearance today, stated Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller.
Goldstine, who was initially charged by Snohomish County for a suspected hate crime, now faces additional federal charges of unlawful possession of a destructive device, ammunition, and a firearm. Law enforcement responded to the explosion on December 31, 2024, at an Everett apartment complex. The victims had reported suspicions about Goldstine owing to previous disputes, further supported by a voicemail with racial slurs referencing the explosion.
Police reviewed video footage from the complex and surrounding areas to identify Goldstine’s attire and movement. A search of his residence revealed clothing that matched the footage and more than 700 rounds of ammunition. Due to previous felony offenses, including burglary, arson, and possession of stolen property, Goldstine is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
This federal indictment comes after a previous investigation in September 2020, when Goldstine was accused of brandishing a firearm at protesters. That incident, captured on video, led to a confiscation of a firearm from his home. The recent federal charges assert the firearm's unlawful possession.
If convicted, Goldstine could face up to 10 years in prison for each count of unlawful possession of a destructive device and a firearm. The charge of unlawful possession of ammunition could result in up to 15 years of imprisonment. Although charged, the allegations remain as such unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case involves collaboration between the Everett Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Manca is prosecuting the case.
