The Port of Seattle Bomb Squad dismantled a homemade explosive device this week after it was transported to a local business by a concerned resident.
The incident prompted urgent warnings from local authorities about the dangers of moving suspicious devices.
Over the years, the Kent Police Department has encountered various hazardous items brought directly to their building by well-meaning residents. One woman once transported a heavy wooden box containing small explosive devices from World War II to the police department lobby, seeking help to remove them from her car. Another individual brought in significantly altered fireworks, which could have caused severe damage if detonated in his vehicle.
This week, a gentleman found what he believed to be a bomb and took it to a local business for assistance with disposal. The business promptly called 911. Sergeant Clay and his crew responded to the scene and immediately requested the Port of Seattle Bomb Squad.
“We want to emphatically express that transporting explosives is a horrible idea,” warned a police spokesperson. “Please do not move explosives by car, on foot, on a bike, on horseback, or any other way. Explosives are dangerous and can become unstable over time.”
The bomb squad successfully disassembled the device, confirming that it could have caused significant harm had it exploded. The Kent Police Department stressed the importance of calling 911 and leaving potentially dangerous items undisturbed until experts can handle them.
So, what’s is dangerous?
- Old military devices that contain explosive powder/liquid, even if you’ve been told they have been ‘made safe.’
- Fireworks that have been altered in any way. This includes wrapping several of them together to get a bigger boom. People do this every year causing injuries ranging from burns to loss of fingers and toes.
- Old Fireworks that have been sitting around for a long time.
- Anything homemade that someone has put explosive powder/liquid into.
Residents are urged to contact authorities immediately if they encounter such items and to avoid handling them.
“If you own something like this, or find it somewhere, do the only smart thing and call 911,” police said. “DO NOT transport it. DO NOT pick it up. We don’t pick them up and neither should you. Do what KPD does….decide to keep all your digits and let the experts deal with it.
“Nice job, Sgt. Clay and crew!” the department commended their team for their swift and safe response.
