Update #2: Police say a World War II-era grenade brought to a Chatham business as part of a donation prompted a temporary evacuation Wednesday but posed no ongoing risk to the public.
Chatham-Kent police were called to the business on Keil Drive South on Nov. 20 after staff reported a possible explosive device among donated items. Officers examined the object and determined it was a historical grenade from the Second World War.
As a precaution, the area was cordoned off and the store was evacuated while the Canadian Armed Forces were dispatched. Military personnel retrieved the device and disposed of it following standard protocols.
Police say the business will remain closed for the rest of the day as a precaution but emphasized there is no threat to public safety.
Residents are urged to use caution when sorting through old memorabilia or items that resemble weapons, ammunition or explosives, especially those inherited or found in storage. Police advise against transporting or dropping off any item that may be hazardous. Anyone unsure about an object should contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service’s non-emergency line at 519-352-1234.
Police thanked the public for their patience and cooperation during the response.
Update: Chatham-Kent police say the incident at a business at 80 Keil Drive South has been successfully resolved.
As a precaution, the business will stay closed for the rest of the day, police said in an updated advisory.
The service thanked residents for their patience and cooperation throughout the incident.
Original story: Chatham-Kent Police Service officials allege: Chatham-Kent police have closed a business at 80 Keil Drive South for public safety reasons and are asking the public to avoid the area.
The store was evacuated out of what police describe as an abundance of caution. It will remain closed to customers and staff for several hours.
Officials say the area has been cordoned off to allow officers and emergency crews to work safely.
Further information will be released when available.
The location is the multi-unit building on Keil, which includes Value Village.
