A bomb squad was called to Studio City on Tuesday after construction workers unearthed several World War II-era hand grenades, prompting a swift and cautious response from local authorities. The vintage explosives, discovered during routine excavation, led to an immediate evacuation of nearby buildings as experts carefully secured the site. NBC Los Angeles reports that the investigation is ongoing, with officials working to safely remove and dispose of the hazardous relics from the area.
Bomb Squad Responds to Discovery of World War II-Era Hand Grenades in Studio City
Local authorities were alerted after construction workers unearthed several World War II-era hand grenades while excavating a residential lot in Studio City. The discovery prompted an immediate response from the Los Angeles Police Department’s bomb squad, who swiftly secured the area and initiated a careful examination of the devices. Experts on-site confirmed that the grenades, believed to be over 75 years old, remained live and hazardous, necessitating controlled detonation to ensure public safety.
The incident led to temporary street closures and evacuation of nearby homes as precautionary measures. Officials provided the following updates during the operation:
- Time of discovery: 10:30 AM
- Location: Residential construction site, Studio City
- Number of grenades found: 3
- Action taken: Bomb squad on-site, controlled detonation planned
| Grenade Type | Condition | Safety Status |
|---|---|---|
| MK2 “Pineapple” | Rust-covered but intact | Live, requires detonating |
| Mills Bomb No.5 | Corroded casing | Unstable, handled with extreme care |
| RGD-33 | Partial degradation | Live but safe to transport |
Experts Assess Potential Threat and Safety Measures for Historic Ordnance
Experts brought in to assess the recovered World War II-era hand grenades emphasize the potential risk these historic ordnance artifacts pose to public safety. Due to their age and unknown storage conditions, the grenades could be highly unstable, risking accidental detonation with minimal disturbance. Specialists highlight that although these devices are beyond their operational lifespan, the chemical components inside might remain volatile, requiring cautious handling and advanced disposal techniques.
To ensure the safety of the community, bomb technicians have implemented a series of precautionary steps, including:
- Controlled evacuation of the immediate area surrounding the find.
- Use of remote-controlled robots to inspect and move the devices.
- Safe transportation protocols in secure containers to designated disposal sites.
- Coordination with historical ordnance experts to identify and properly categorize each device.
| Safety Measure | Purpose | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Evacuation zone establishment | Minimize civilian exposure | High |
| Remote bomb disposal robotics | Avoid human contact | Very High |
| Specialized containment | Prevent accidental detonation during transport | High |
| Expert ordnance consultation | Accurate risk assessment and classification | Moderate to High |
Community Advised on Reporting Suspicious Items and Emergency Preparedness
Residents in Studio City and surrounding neighborhoods are reminded to remain vigilant when encountering unfamiliar or suspicious objects, especially in areas with a history of military activity or old construction sites. If you come across any item that appears unusual, rusted, or potentially hazardous, do not touch or move it. Instead, immediately contact local authorities through emergency services or the non-emergency police line to report the find. Prompt reporting ensures public safety and allows specialized teams, such as the bomb squad, to assess and neutralize potential threats efficiently.
In addition to awareness, community members are encouraged to prepare for emergencies by reviewing safety protocols and maintaining a ready emergency kit. Key recommendations include:
- Memorize emergency contact numbers including police, fire department, and local bomb disposal units.
- Create a family emergency plan addressing evacuation routes and meeting points.
- Keep a flashlight, first aid supplies, and portable radio within easy reach.
- Stay informed through official community alerts and trusted news sources.
| Emergency Item | Recommended Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Flashlight | 1 per household | Illuminate dark areas during power outage |
| First Aid Kit | 1 kit | Manage minor injuries safely |
| Portable Radio | 1 device | Receive emergency broadcasts |
| Water Bottles | 3 gallons per person | Maintain hydration during emergencies |
Final Thoughts
As authorities continue their investigation and safely dispose of the World War II-era hand grenades recovered in Studio City, residents are reminded to report any suspicious or potentially hazardous items to local law enforcement immediately. The bomb squad’s swift response ensured public safety in this incident, highlighting the importance of vigilance when dealing with unexploded ordnance from past conflicts. NBC Los Angeles will provide updates as more information becomes available.