Update: Police Find Nothing Suspicious in Bag; Roads Re-Open

Update, 7:47 p.m.: Columbia police officers and firefighters have cleared the scene at Laurel and Assembly Streets in downtown Columbia after a call regarding a suspicious duffle bag found near a church. 

After a thorough investigation and with the State Law Enforcement Division's assistance, a robot determined that the bag contained clothing and other miscellaneous items. Police say there was no evidence of any harmful and hazardous materials inside.

The bag was detonated as a public safety precaution. All roads in the affected area that were shut down are back to normal traffic flow.

Original story, 5:28 p.m.: Law enforcement officials are investigating a call about a suspicious item found at the intersection of Laurel and Assembly Streets in downtown Columbia right before rush hour traffic. 

A citizen called 911 after seeing a person drop off a 'duffle-like' bag in the shubbery at a local church. 

Specialized equipment will be used to determine the contents, if any, of the bag. 

The following roads have been temporarily closed: 

• Both lanes of Laurel Street between Sumter and Assembly 
• All lanes of Assembly between Blanding and Richland Streets 

Drivers and pedestrians should use an alternate route.

Columbia Police officers are stationed throughout downtown to make sure the folks get to their destinations safely. 

Check back with Patch for an update.