University News
Explosive Device Found at Off-Campus Establishment
February 28, 2009
MACOMB, IL – According to the Macomb Police Department (MPD), an explosive device was found today (Feb. 28) at an off-campus establishment.
At approximately 10:30 a.m. officers were dispatched to the Change of Pace, 301 N. Campbell St., in regards to a possible IED (improvised explosive device) that was located outside the business. Members of the Secretary of State Police Bomb Squad from Springfield (IL) used its robotic bomb recovery equipment to secure the device.
According to MPD Det. Matt Gass, the IED was taken to a secure location and destroyed by the bomb squad. It was determined that the device was an active bomb that had not yet detonated. At this time the Secretary of State Police, the Macomb Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms are investigating.
"This is a serious situation. If a device is located it should not be touched and cellular telephone calls should not be made anywhere near the scene," said MPD Det. Matt Gass.
Any unusual or suspicious objects should be reported immediately by calling 9-1-1.
"While this incident occurred off-campus, it is imperative that members of the Western community remain vigilant and report anything suspicious that they may see, either off or on campus," said Western Illinois University Office of Public Safety Director Robert Fitzgerald.
Western's Emergency Alert System (WEAS) was activated to notify the Macomb campus community of the incident that occurred off campus.
Any questions or information should be directed to the Macomb Police Department at (309) 833-4505 or the McDonough County CrimeStoppers at (309) 836-3222.
Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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