Suspicious Device Found at East Harlem Police Precinct
Incident Sparks Lockdown and Bomb Squad Response
A suspicious device was removed by the NYPD Bomb Squad after it was found outside a police precinct in East Harlem Wednesday afternoon, police said. The device was discovered shortly before 12:30 p.m. on 119th Street near Park Avenue.
Investigation Unfolds
The incident began as a dispute outside the precinct when two cousins, driving in a van, were approached by uniformed officers. The driver claimed to be the victim of a domestic assault, alleging that the passenger, his cousin, attacked him with a machete. Police took the passenger into custody after finding the machete in the vehicle.
The passenger, described as incoherent and possibly suffering from emotional issues, was known to have a history of mental health issues and had been involved in a similar incident a few years prior.
Device Found and Removed
The driver reported that the passenger had also mentioned the presence of an explosive device in the vehicle, prompting the NYPD Bomb Squad to be called in. The device was later discovered and removed from the scene, taken to Rodman’s Neck for disassembly.
Description and Investigation
The device was described as a "potentially viable improvised explosive device" capable of causing death or serious injury to anyone in proximity and property damage. While investigators are still working to determine if it was capable of exploding, police initially believed it to be real.
Eyewitness Account
Kemoree Bryant, who witnessed the bomb squad response, described her experience: "I was getting my hair done nearby when I heard all the commotion. I came outside and was recording… I was very nervous, actually. I was a little scared. I was really confused, ‘How can this happen here?’"
Ongoing Investigation
Police are investigating the origins and purpose of the device, as well as the circumstances surrounding its presence in the vehicle. No arrests have been made at this time.
Background on Individuals Involved
The two cousins involved in the incident have a history of prior arrests, with up to 20 arrests between them. However, these incidents were described as "minimal" and not significant.
Conclusion
The discovery and removal of the suspicious device highlighted the swift response of emergency services and the thoroughness of police investigation. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for emergency preparedness in our communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the nature of the device found at the East Harlem police precinct?
A: The device was a "potentially viable improvised explosive device" capable of causing harm or property damage.
Q: What was the context of the device’s discovery?
A: The device was discovered after a dispute between two cousins in a van, who claimed the passenger had attacked the driver with a machete.
Q: Are there any arrests connected to the incident?
A: No arrests have been made at this time.
Q: How was the device removed and handled?
A: The NYPD Bomb Squad removed the device and took it to Rodman’s Neck for disassembly and investigation.
