Update: Officials state the alert was accidently sent across the entire county, originally intended only for nearby residents in the neighborhood.
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Deputies with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office safely disposed of decades-old explosives discovered at a property in the 2500 block of Kenneth Court this week.
On August 26, deputies responded after a family clearing debris on the property found numerous blasting caps and a large quantity of dynamite believed to be more than 50 years old. The Grand Junction Police Department Bomb Squad determined the dynamite was too unstable to transport, though the blasting caps were removed for later disposal.
After consulting with utility providers and nearby residents, officials decided the safest option was a controlled detonation at the site. On August 27, neighbors were notified and advised to take precautions for their homes, animals, and property. At 11:45 a.m., the bomb squad detonated the explosives without incident.
No injuries were reported, and authorities say there is no ongoing threat to the community. The Sheriff’s Office thanked residents for their cooperation and emphasized safety as the top priority in handling the historic materials.