World War II-era Explosive Device Discovered at Port of Long Beach
Table of Contents
A construction crew unearthed a piece of history – and a potential hazard – at the Port of long Beach on Wednesday, July 17, when they discovered a decades-old World War II explosive. The incident prompted a temporary evacuation and response from multiple agencies, but operations resumed Wednesday night after the device was safely removed and deactivated.
A port spokesperson confirmed the eight-decade-old shell was found at one of the port’s six container terminals. The unexpected discovery underscores the lingering remnants of wartime infrastructure and the potential for such finds during large-scale construction projects.
Terminal Evacuated, Safety Perimeter Established
Upon discovery of the ordnance, a swift and coordinated response was initiated.The Long Beach police and fire departments, alongside the U.S. Coast Guard,instantly evacuated the affected terminal and established a robust safety perimeter. This decisive action prioritized public safety and minimized potential risks.
The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad was quickly dispatched to the scene to assess the situation. According to authorities, the remaining terminals at the port continued to operate normally throughout the incident, demonstrating the port’s ability to maintain critical operations even during unforeseen circumstances.
Marine Corps Team Safely Deactivates Device
A specialized U.S. Marine Corps ordnance disposal team arrived and determined the device was stable enough to be transported. The team carefully moved the explosive offsite, where it was subsequently deactivated.This meticulous process highlights the expertise and precision required when handling potentially dangerous historical artifacts.
“The swift and professional response from all involved agencies ensured the safety of personnel and the continued operation of the port,” a senior official stated.
The Port of Long Beach resumed normal operations wednesday night, marking a prosperous resolution to the unexpected incident. This event serves as a reminder of the historical layers beneath modern infrastructure and the importance of preparedness in safeguarding critical facilities.
Why did this happen? A construction crew at the Port of Long Beach discovered an eight-decade-old World War II explosive shell on Wednesday, July 17. The discovery highlights the potential for unearthing remnants of wartime infrastructure during large-scale construction projects.
Who was involved? The Long Beach Police and Fire Departments, the U.S.Coast Guard, the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad, and a specialized U.S. marine Corps ordnance disposal team responded to the incident. A port spokesperson also confirmed details.
What was discovered? An eight-decade-old World War II explosive shell was found at one of the port’s six container terminals. The device prompted a temporary evacuation of the affected terminal.
How did it end? The U.S. Marine Corps ordnance disposal team determined the device was stable enough to transport. They carefully moved the explosive offsite and subsequently deactivated it. The Port of Long Beach resumed normal operations Wednesday night.
