Amber Phillips
Updated on: October 17, 2024 9:35 am GMT
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A potential emergency has unfolded in Knoxville, where authorities are responding to a situation involving a box suspected of containing explosives. The Knoxville Police Department (KPD) and Knoxville Fire Department (KFD) are on the scene near Western Avenue, causing significant disruption in the area and prompting emergency evacuation orders.
KPD officers discovered the box on Mynderse Avenue, approximately 100 yards from the 2700 block of Western Avenue. Confirming the seriousness of the situation, KPD Communications Manager Scott Erland stated that the box was reported to be smoking, though no definitive conclusions have been drawn about its contents.
Evacuation Measures and Area Closures
In response to the potential threat, authorities issued an evacuation order for a 3000-foot radius, impacting several neighborhoods. This extensive measure reflects the cautious approach taken by emergency services.
- The evacuation order was activated around 2:15 p.m.
- An emergency alert was dispatched to local residents at approximately 4:25 p.m.
- Streets closed include Western Avenue between Texas Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue.
“This is being done out of an absolute abundance of caution,” Erland explained. “We don’t know exactly what we’re dealing with, but we are operating under the assumption that it is explosive.”
Ongoing Investigations
As the situation develops, authorities have informed the public that the investigation is likely to be extensive. Erland mentioned that the area may remain closed off for some time as KPD’s bomb squad secures the site and assesses the box.
“Our approach is to take it slow and cautiously,” Erland noted, acknowledging that the safety of the community is the top priority. “We really don’t know what we’re dealing with at this point,” he added, emphasizing the need for careful evaluation.
Community Response and Safety Assistance
During the unfolding incident, local authorities have encouraged residents in the evacuation zone to seek shelters. The Red Cross has been referenced as a resource for displaced individuals needing a place to stay during this time.
As of now, no injuries have been reported related to the investigation. KPD reassured the public that they would provide updates once more information is available.
Public Safety Communication
KFD utilized the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System to keep the community informed about the situation. By distributing timely updates, authorities aim to ensure the safety of residents while managing the potentially hazardous scenario.
“It’s important for everyone to stay clear of the area while we continue the investigation,” KFD officials advised.
Authorities also clarified that the suspicious box was not part of a delivery to nearby businesses. Instead, it was left on private property, adding to the perplexity of the situation.
KPD’s bomb squad has escalated its presence in the region as they begin the careful examination of the box. “We will learn more as we progress in the investigation,” Erland stated.
Conclusion
As the situation on Western Avenue evolves, Knoxville residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local authorities. With the area closed off and a thorough investigation underway, everyone is urged to prioritize safety above all else.
Officials are working to figure out what the box is and what’s inside it. For now, it’s important for everyone to stay updated by watching local news and listening to official announcements to keep safe during this uncertain time.
