ELLENSBURG, Wash.- The live mortar found buried in an Ellensburg backyard has been safely removed and is now with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal group at the Yakima Training Center.
Ellensburg police say it’s standard practice for smaller agencies to call for a different bomb squad as they don’t have their own in town.
At this time, Police Captain Cameron Clasen doesn’t know how old the bomb is or where it came from. With it appears to have not been a recent burial, EPD is not investigating as intensely as a newer explosive would be.
“If it was something that looks like it was just freshly buried, then there would be definitely more of an investigation,” says Captain Clasen. “It’s been there for quite some time. Probably not going to spend a lot of energy on finding out where that came from.”
EPD says the homeowners calling 911 was the correct route of action. If you do come across a possible explosive, Clasen says you should leave the area and call for the experts immediately.
In cases like this one, where it was at a home close to others, you can tell your surrounding neighbors as you wait for law enforcement. EPD says it isn’t necessary, because police will alert them if it is a credible threat.
While finding explosives in your backyard isn’t common, Clasen says it tends to happen at older homes.
“Typically, people are going to have somewhat of an idea that this isn’t anything to do with the structure,” says Clasen. “So, they probably have some type of idea that this could an explosive device. Even if they’re in doubt, they should call 911. Get some experts in there to figure out whether or not it is an explosive device.”
If you do plan to dig on your property, EPD says you should know what you’re digging into. While it won’t reveal hidden explosives, calling 811 will prevent you from hitting any water or electrical lines on your property.
