Bomb Scare Leads To Evacuation Of Iverson Mall, Suitcase And Clock Deemed Not A Threat

HILLCREST HEIGHTS, MD — A suspicious package left Wednesday outside Iverson Mall was investigated by Prince George's Fire Department's bomb team and determined to not be a threat to the public.

The mall was evacuated less than an hour before opening. Police cars and fire trucks could be seen positioned around the Iverson Mall shops on Branch Avenue and Iverson Street around 9 a.m. The suspicious package was left near the Bank of America building. Police officers first thought the item was a suitcase sitting near a counter with a small clock beside it. But couldn't determine if there were wires attached, Prince George's Assistant Fire Chief Carroll Spriggs said during a news conference.

Bomb techs X-rayed the suitcase and discovered only personal items within. Officials gave the all-clear around 11:30 a.m. Now investigators are looking into who left the suitcase and clock behind, Spriggs said.