State Police Bomb Squad technicians this afternoon conducted, what they called, “a controlled detonation” of an explosive device and leftover explosive materials at a Haverhill home.
Residents near the 5 Rosebud Ave, Haverhill, home who had been evacuated as a safety precaution were allowed back into their homes, according to a statement from Haverhill Police Chief Robert P. Pistone, Haverhill Fire Chief Robert M. O’Brien and state Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. An as-yet unnamed man, described as being in his 60s, faces criminal charges in connection with the device. He was driving a Freightliner truck, stopped by State Police on Interstate 495 in Wrentham and taken to an area hospital.
Officials said the highway was shut down while the truck was swept for hazards
As WHAV reported earlier, Haverhill Police were dispatched to the home not far from the Methuen line after receiving a report around 8 this morning of, what was originally described as a possible “incendiary” device. Based on their observations, police requested help from the State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office. Using robotic platforms and other tools, technicians deemed the device “a significant danger” and said it could not safely be moved out of the home.
No injuries were reported.
–Earlier–
Residents are being asked to avoid the area of Rosebud Avenue in Haverhill near the Methuen line as city and state officials investigate a possible incendiary device. A man, believed associated with the object is under arrest after being stopped by State Police on Interstate 495 in Wrentham.
In a joint statement early this afternoon, Haverhill Police Chief Robert P. Pistone, Haverhill Fire Chief Robert M. O’Brien and state Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said the device—one created to start fires—was reported to police around 8 a.m.
Based on their observations, police requested help from the State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office. Bomb Squad technicians and fire investigators remain on scene along with Haverhill police and firefighters.
The name of the man arrested, described only as an adult, has not yet been made public. Officials said no other individuals are being sought.
This is a developing story. Stay with 97.9 WHAV for more information.