Tension gripped a McKinney cemetery after an improvised explosive device (IED) was discovered and subsequently neutralized by a bomb squad, local law enforcement officials reported. The potentially deadly object, wrapped in black tape, prompted a swift reaction when it was encountered at Scott Cemetery on Thursday, according to the Collin County Sheriff's Office. The discovery occurred just off County Road 161, where the device was found during the morning hours, as reported by WFAA.
Officials responded to the scene around 9:30 a.m. and, finding the suspicious object, called for backup from the bomb squad. Deputies were initially alerted by a civilian who reported seeing the device last week, "I saw something on the ground so I kind of kicked it with my foot. I didn't kick it hard, I just nudged it with my foot," Larry Hankey said, though he hesitated at the time to take further action. It was only after contemplating a recent FBI alert over the holidays urging vigilance that he decided to make the call, "I should've called it in earlier," Hankey admitted, as per NBC DFW.
The Plano Police Department's bomb squad joined the response team, confirming that the object was indeed an IED. Once the threat was assessed, the bomb squad safely disposed of the explosive. This operation drew the attention of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The combined efforts ensured that the incident concluded without injury, and officials have communicated that there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
In the wake of the bomb squad's controlled detonation, some residents recounted feeling the impact within their homes. "It doesn't make any sense. Why would there be a pipe bomb in a cemetery in a great neighborhood," a baffled Jim Thomas, who lives nearby. In the aftermath, the sheriff's office extended gratitude for the swift action taken by the bomb squad, "Our sincere appreciation to the Plano Texas Police Department Bomb Squad for their rapid and effective response," the statement concluded, per NBC DFW.
