Man accused of bringing bomb into Panera Bread appears in Fresno court

A 43-year-old man accused of carrying an explosive device into a Panera Bread restaurant in northwest Fresno will undergo a mental competency evaluation before his case proceeds further, a judge decided Wednesday.

Chad Melvin Mazgedian appeared in court for an arraignment hearing on a slew of charges in connection to the incident. For the time being, all of his criminal cases are being suspended, pending the mental health evaluation, which was requested by his attorney.

On March 13, the defendant allegedly led police on a short vehicle pursuit.

Police say he ran into the Panera Bread after the pursuit and was tackled. An explosive device then dropped from his jacket. That triggered an evacuation of the restaurant as well as the nearby Black Bear Diner, Applebee’s and Big Lots.

The charges in relation to the bomb scare include use and possession of an explosive and destructive device, evading police and hit-and-run.

Mazgedian also faces multiple charges for other cases against him, including domestic violence, dissuading a witness, stalking, driving under the influence and possession of firearm.

Public Defender Tomas Kunder, who is representing Mazgedian, declined to comment after the court hearing.

The defense and prosecutors will return to court May 3 to hear the findings of the defendant’s mental evaluation.

Mazgedian remains in custody without bail.