Bomb Squad removes unexploded Artillery Shells From Yard in South Salem

The artillery shells sat in a Salem yard for decades

Photo Courtesy: Marion County Sheriff

(SALEM) - Two large artillery shells that a local resident found on his property when he bought his home 28 years ago were the subject of a State Police Bomb Squad callout Tuesday. Willard Brown, who lives at 4796 River Rd South near Salem, told Deputies that he had recently seen a news report about the risks and dangers that unexploded military ordnance can pose.

He said he contacted the State Police because he was not sure if the shells were live. The Oregon State Police Arson and Explosives Unit, an interagency team that includes a Marion County Sheriff`s Deputy, was called to assist. The team went to the South Salem home and found two large artillery shells, at least one of which they believed may have had the explosive portion intact. The shells were removed from the property and will be turned over to Army National Guard Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel for destruction.

Any explosive can be dangerous, according to Marion County Sheriff`s Spokesman Kevin Rau. `Even something as seemingly harmless as a Fourth of July type firework when handled improperly can cause serious injury or death. It is not uncommon for homeowners to contact law enforcement to report that they have located dynamite, blasting caps, old rifle or pistol rounds or what they believe may be unexploded military ordnance on their property in a shed or barn and even in or around their home." Rau says these items can be very dangerous, especially in a decayed state, and should only be handled by specially trained professionals.

If you ever come across items they believe to be explosives, you should not handle them, keep a safe distance away and call a local law enforcement agency. In Marion County, anyone who locates an item or items like those listed above or any item they believe to be dangerously explosive can call the Marion County Sheriff`s Office at 503-588-5032 or the Oregon State Police at 503-375-3555. There is no charge for this service.