SAN JOSE, CA — A Silicon Valley engineer has admitted to launching a pair of deliberate and destructive bombings against PG&E electrical transformers, causing widespread power outages and endangering thousands of lives in the Bay Area.
Peter Karasev, 38, pleaded guilty today in federal court to two counts of willful destruction of an energy facility — charges stemming from coordinated attacks in December 2022 and January 2023 that plunged neighborhoods and businesses into darkness and could have caused even greater devastation.
“These were not accidents or acts of protest — they were premeditated attacks targeting critical infrastructure,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “This type of sabotage endangers not just property, but the safety and security of entire communities.”
Explosive Attacks on Critical Infrastructure
Karasev, a U.S. citizen and San Jose resident, admitted to using homemade explosive devices to destroy PG&E transformers in two separate incidents:
- On December 8, 2022, he bombed a transformer near Westfield Oakridge Mall, knocking out power to more than 1,450 customers for nearly 16 hours.
- On January 5, 2023, he targeted another transformer near the Plaza Del Rey shopping center, damaging the equipment and a nearby building, and disrupting service to dozens more homes and businesses.
Each attack caused significant property damage and disrupted vital services.
Following Karasev’s arrest on March 1, 2023, investigators discovered a chilling stockpile of weapons and materials. Searches of his home, car, and office uncovered:
- Multiple homemade explosive devices
- Over 300 pounds of explosive precursors
- Hazardous chemicals
- Firearms
- Remote detonation systems
According to court documents, Karasev had extensively researched explosives, infrastructure attacks, and international geopolitical conflicts, further pointing to the deliberate and calculated nature of the attacks.
“Karasev used homemade bombs to deliberately sabotage infrastructure that thousands of people depend on,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins. “His actions could have caused even more widespread chaos and destruction. Thankfully, law enforcement acted swiftly to stop him.”
FBI Assistant Director David J. Scott echoed the concern: “The American people rely on stable infrastructure. We will pursue and hold accountable anyone who tries to disrupt it.” Karasev has agreed to a stipulated sentence of 8.5 to 10.5 years in federal prison, along with paying at least $104,076.26 in restitution for damages. His sentencing is scheduled for August 19.
