Live Grenade Discovered In NJ Backyard, Residents Evacuated

PASSAIC COUNTY, NJ — On Monday, Bloomingdale police responded to a residence on Walter Drive after a resident reported finding a possible hand grenade in their backyard.

Upon arrival, officers determined the object appeared to be a real hand grenade. Nearby residences were evacuated as a precaution, and Walter T. Bergen School was placed into shelter-in-place status.

The Bloomingdale Fire Department, Bloomingdale Department of Works, Triboro First Aid Squad, and Passaic County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad and K-9 Division were called to the scene.

After examining the device, the PCSO Bomb Squad confirmed it was a live, fully charged grenade. The Bomb Squad safely removed the grenade without incident.

A thorough search of the residence and the surrounding area was conducted with the help of the Passaic County Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad and K-9 Division. No additional explosives were located during this search.

Authorities believe the grenade is an older-style device, likely left behind by a dead World War II veteran who previously lived at the residence.

"We understand incidents like this can be alarming for residents. I want to reassure the community that there is no ongoing threat, and the device was safely removed through coordinated efforts with our County partners," said police chief Daniel Greenwood. "Our officers acted swiftly and followed established safety protocols, including evacuations and school sheltering, to ensure the well-being of the public. The successful outcome reflects the professionalism and preparedness of everyone involved.”

_This article includes AI-assisted reporting. Editors reviewed all content for accuracy._