Grenade found inside Richland home prompts bomb squad response

What appeared to be a grenade was found inside a Richland home on Saturday, prompting a bomb squad response to safely remove the device.

At approximately 1:30 p.m., the Richland Police Department (RPD) was called to the 1000 block of Smith Avenue after the caller and her mother found the grenade while cleaning out their relative’s house, RPD announced.

The grenade was located inside a drawer and later moved to the front yard. RPD established a safety perimeter around the residence and awaited the bomb squad.

Richland bomb squad ensured grenade was safe before its removal

The RPD bomb squad arrived at the home, evaluated the device, and ensured it was safe before removing it from the scene.

“While it may seem unusual, calls like this are not uncommon,” RPD stated. “Often, family members discover military items or suspicious items while cleaning out homes. Occasionally, these items are found in places where people would never expect them.”

RPD noted that if anyone finds an item that appears to be suspicious or potentially dangerous, they should use caution and contact a local law enforcement agency.

“Do not attempt to transport the item to your local police or sheriff’s department. If needed, trained personnel, including the RPD Bomb Squad, will respond to assess the situation and ensure everyone’s safety,” RPD stated.

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