Emergency personnel in Batesville responded to an unusual situation Wednesday after a suspected grenade was found in the debris of a house fire on Broadwater Lane. State and federal bomb squads were called to the scene to assess the potential threat, according to local authorities.
The Batesville Fire Department initially extinguished a fire at the residence Tuesday evening, Batesville Police said. However, while sifting through the aftermath the next day, a family member of the homeowners discovered what appeared to be a hand grenade among the ruins. It remains unclear whether the device was live or inert.
Firefighters were called back to the home later Wednesday morning when the fire reignited. Upon learning about the suspicious device, Batesville police were notified, and they began coordinating with the fire department to address the new concern. Fire crews worked from a safe distance, focusing on protecting a nearby residence and the surrounding area until the situation could be resolved.
The Arkansas State Police Bomb Squad and the FBI Bomb Squad responded to assist with evaluating and removing the device. Authorities did not release further details about the grenade’s condition or its origins.
In a statement, the Batesville Police Department expressed gratitude for the cooperation and professionalism demonstrated by all parties involved. "The coordinated effort by local, state, and federal agencies was instrumental in protecting the community, officers, and emergency personnel," the department said.
No injuries were reported in connection with the fire or the device. Investigations into the fire and the suspected grenade remain ongoing.