Robert Kirmelewicz, Chief
Public Safety Building
181 Main St
Groveland, MA 01834
For Immediate Release
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Bomb Squad Detonates Old Railway Construction Explosives Found In Groveland Home
GROVELAND — Police Chief Robert J. Kirmelewicz reports that the Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad successfully detonated several explosives discovered in a Groveland home today.
Early this morning, a woman from a residence on Garrison Street called police at approximately 9 a.m. to report that she located a box with old dynamite inside. Groveland Police responded and confirmed the contents without touching or disturbing the box.
An officer responded to the home to view and photograph the items. The Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad remotely reviewed the components and advised Groveland Police to secure the area.
State Police Sgt. Paul Horgan and Sgt. Robert Bachelder, a State Police Sergeant attached to the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office, arrived to the scene. They determined the items consisted of an old railroad flare and audible warning devices that sounded when trains were approaching. While the items were not high explosives, Police decided that safely detonating the items was the best course of action.
The homeowner, who owns a 60-acre field in town, gave Police permission to detonate the items on their property. Surrounding neighbors were notified and Groveland Fire and Trinity Ambulance responded as stand-by.
Officials carefully prepared and successfully detonated the items.
“We are pleased that this resident did the right thing and called police the moment she found potentially dangerous explosives in her home,” Chief Kirmelewicz said. “I commend the work of all those involved for their swift and efficient response and for preventing any injuries or disturbances to the community.”
The homeowner was given the honor of “pressing the button” that safely detonated the explosives from a distance.
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