Suspicious item found in rental car triggers major response
A rental car from Enterprise on N Herritage Street, near the Plaza, led to an extensive emergency response due to a suspicious item found inside.
The item, found in the glove box, was initially reported as a possible bomb, according to Kinston Fire Chief Damien Locklear. "When we initially got the call, it came out as an actual bomb device and units responding included KPD, fire and emergency services," Locklear stated. "We got on the scene and found a device in the glove box. It was wrapped in green tape, had some wires coming out of it."
Upon the discovery, the fire department and local police treated the situation as if it were a real threat until confirmed otherwise. "We have no confirmed evidence saying that it's anything otherwise, so we requested additional units," Locklear continued.
Prompt actions were taken to ensure public safety. "Our immediate actions were to evacuate this immediate area, including Enterprise, all businesses down up to Hibbett Sports," Locklear explained. The nearby Food Lion supermarket was deemed safe and left in place, but all traffic was redirected.
Officials at the scene worked diligently to secure the area and maintain a comprehensive account of all personnel. Authorities began making arrangements for a bomb disposal team and notified the FBI about the situation.
However, the situation took an unexpected turn. "Then we did get the call from National Guard, [who] had actually used one of these vehicles and they were out, had been doing some training. One of their training devices had been left in the vehicle," Locklear revealed. The device, found by Enterprise staff, was indeed a training device left behind by the National Guard.
Locklear expressed relief that the device was not an actual threat. "Thankful that that's what it was and it wasn't anything other than that and we took all precautionary measures to make sure we were keeping our citizens, everybody coming into the area, safe," he said.
Locklear commended the response to the situation and saw it as a valuable learning experience. "It worked out OK. We didn't have an incident and if nothing else, we can consider it a good drill," he concluded.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and the effectiveness of the emergency services in responding to potential threats, even if they turn out to be false alarms. The thorough and efficient response ensured the safety of the citizens, showcasing the readiness of our local emergency services.
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