Police said they’ve been investigating the device since Tuesday afternoon before determining the safest way to detonate it.
AUSTIN, Texas — A person has been detained after an explosive device was discovered at a home in South Austin.
Police revealed the explosive device was actually discovered Tuesday afternoon at a home on Vintage Stave Road near Brodie Lane.
Austin police said members of the Bomb Squad Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) determined the only way to safely dispose of the device was to detonate it inside the house.
Police said they safely evacuated residents in the area before the device was detonated around 5 p.m. Wednesday.
As sparks and smoke from the detonation filled the air, neighbors said the incident was a bit unsettling.
“Pretty safe area … so it’s weird to see this stuff, but not surprised,” Matt Poodiack said. “The fact that there’s still explosives or whatever it is … definitely uneasy. And my daughter’s elementary school is just [nearby].”
Police said the house sustained major damage following the detonation and that the house next door suffered minor damage.
It’s still unclear what the device was or how it was discovered. Police have not said if the person detained will face any charges. Their investigation is ongoing.