Son of Piero’s Founder Avoids Jail in Separate Case as Explosion Probe Continues

A man accused in connection with an explosion at Piero’s Italian Cuisine pleaded not guilty in court on Tuesday, while two other indicted suspects did not appear and are being sought by authorities.

Clark County grand jurors last week indicted 35-year-old John Navarro, 34-year-old Sarah Hernandez, and 54-year-old Phillip Gonzales in connection with the Nov. 13 incident outside the longtime restaurant near the Las Vegas Strip. A prosecutor also told the court that a fourth suspect had been arrested in Arizona and is awaiting extradition.

Navarro appeared in custody for his arraignment, where he entered a not guilty plea and waived his right to a speedy trial. Hernandez and Gonzales, who had previously posted bail, did not attend the hearing. Chief Deputy District Attorney Michael Schwartzer told District Judge Crystal Eller that both remained at large, and Gonzales’ attorney said he would work with prosecutors to arrange a surrender.

In a separate hearing the same day, Evan Glusman, the son of Piero’s former owner, avoided jail time in an unrelated criminal case. Glusman previously pleaded no contest to a harassment charge after police said he borrowed $1.5 million against the business without authorization and made threatening statements about a possible shooting at the restaurant. As part of a negotiated resolution, his informal probation was modified to include additional conditions.

During Tuesday’s hearing, Glusman’s attorney stated on the record that his client is not a suspect in the explosion. Schwartzer declined to discuss the status of the bombing investigation, citing its ongoing nature, but said Glusman is now barred from contacting any Piero’s employees and is subject to alcohol monitoring under the updated probation terms.

Original source: Las Vegas Review-Journal.