A suspicious device apparently found inside a Gainesville home was detonated by the GBI bomb squad Monday night.
Gainesville police Sgt. Kevin Holbrook said authorities were called to a residence in the area of Holly Drive and Beverly Drive around 5:30 p.m. to investigate a possible explosive device.
He said the device was considered suspicious and potentially dangerous, prompting local authorities to contact the GBI for assistance in handling the case.
While authorities worked to secure the scene, Holbrook said they evacuated between 30 and 50 individuals who lived in the Sherwood Drive area. The displaced residents were taken to First Baptist Church on Green Street.
Following the evacuations, the GBI bomb unit found its way to the scene.
"The bomb unit arrived on scene [around 6:49 p.m.] to assist with the investigation," Holbrook said. "Of course, we wanted to determine what we were dealing with."
"They were able to take the device from the residence to an open area, and while there, with their specialized equipment, were able to determine that further investigation needed to be done," he continued. "At some point, they determined that it would be best to detonate the device using their equipment."
After the device was detonated, any component pieces were gathered in order to assist with the investigation.
"They have gathered everything that was involved in this case and investigators are analyzing it to determine exactly what it is," Holbrook explained.
He noted that authorities have identified an individual who may have constructed the device, although specific details are being withheld pending further investigation.
"It's not believed that this device was ever a bomb type of weapon, however, our number-one priority is the safety of everyone [in the area]," Holbrook continued. "So we wanted to make sure that we took every precaution necessary for the safety of everyone involved."
More details are expected to be released in the coming days.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2016/12/480300/gbi-detonates-device-found-in-gainesville-home-authorities-say-suspect-identified-in-the-case