Bomb Squad Called Out to Gelson's in Tarzana

A report of a man causing a disturbance at a Tarzana shopping center Wednesday led to a police bomb squad using a robot to search a vehicle parked outside the center for possible explosives.

Police arrived at the Gelson's shopping center in the 5500 block of Reseda Boulevard shortly after 2 p.m. after receiving a report of a man causing a disturbance, according to Los Angeles police Officer Karen Rayner.

The man, who was taken into custody, allegedly told police he had rigged his vehicle with explosives, according to reports from the scene.

A bomb squad was called, and a robot was used to open doors of the white SUV and remove items from inside. More than three hours later, items were pulled from the vehicle but it was unclear if any explosive materials had been found.

Traffic was snarled in the area near Ventura and Reseda boulevards and motorists were advised to find other routes.

—City News Service