Garland Police Investigate Homemade Explosive Devices Found Near Wynne Park
GARLAND, Texas – Authorities are currently investigating after multiple live homemade explosive devices were discovered in a wooded area close to Wynne Park on Sunday.
Discovery of Explosive Devices
At approximately 11:30 a.m., a passerby reported an open suitcase along with scattered items near West Centerville Road and South First Street. According to Lt. Pedro Barineau of the Garland Police, the objects included suspicious items resembling “pipe bombs.”
Police and FBI Response
The Garland Police Department responded quickly, calling in their Bomb Unit as well as bomb technicians from the FBI. Following their assessment, it was confirmed that several of the items constituted live explosive devices.
“The first thing that they did was make sure that everything was safe,” remarked Lt. Barineau. “We made sure that the residents in the north of the neighborhood were made aware. They locked down the area and they began the process of rendering each device safe, which was a long process.”
The bomb disposal technicians worked tirelessly throughout the day and into the night to deactivate the explosives.
Ongoing Investigation
To ensure public safety, investigators, aided by an explosives detection dog, are conducting a thorough sweep of the area to rule out the presence of any additional devices.
Details surrounding the origin and intent of these explosive devices remain unclear. Lt. Barineau stated, “As of right now, it’s still very much an active investigation. We’re still trying determine how this suitcase arrived at the park, who this suitcase belonged to, and ultimately what was the intent behind these explosive devices.”
Additionally, it is unknown how long the explosive devices had been located in the area before their discovery.
Public Assistance Requested
Authorities urge anyone with potential information regarding the incident to contact the Garland Police Department at (972) 485-4840. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Garland Crime Stoppers at (972) 272-TIPS (8477). There is a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to arrests or indictments related to this case.
The Source: Information in this article is sourced from the Garland Police Department.
