An old explosive device from World War II era was discovered on a bustling footpath in Oshawa, triggering a swift and coordinated response from police and military authorities to ensure public safety.
According to Durham Regional Police, the alarming incident unfolded around 4:20 p.m. on Wednesday when a suspicious package was reported on a popular walking path near Gibb Street and Centre Street South.
Eyewitnesses described spotting an object with visible wires and warning labels, prompting law enforcement to swiftly cordon off the area and evacuate pedestrians while the Tactical Support Explosive Disposal Unit (EDU) was mobilized.
Upon closer examination, law enforcement officials identified the device as resembling military artillery, leading to the involvement of the Department of National Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, who were swiftly deployed to the scene.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the device was a leftover bomblet from the Second World War era. In a joint effort with Durham police, specialists carefully extracted the device and transported it to a Canadian Forces base for safe disposal.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the operation, ensuring the safety of the public in the vicinity.
Authorities are now reaching out to the community for support, urging individuals with cellphone footage, dash cam recordings, or surveillance footage from the area to come forward to aid in the ongoing investigation.