Fisherman Finds Live Explosive Near N.J. Bridge

Police Director Alphonse Petracco and Chief Thomas Strumolo announced yesterday that a detonated, unexploded military grade bomb was safely discarded by the Essex County Sheriff’s Bomb Squad after being discovered in the Passaic River.

Chief Strumolo said at approx. 3:45 PM yesterday a magnet fisherman pulled an unexploded military shell from beneath the Passaic River while using a metal detector to search the waters.

The fisherman immediately notified police who cordoned off Park Ave. Rt 21, River Rd and the Lyndhurst Bridge until the bomb squad arrived. 

The shell, believed to be live, was then secured and removed to a safe location to be detonated.

Police Director Petracco said it was quick thinking for the fisherman to get away and notify police. He commended police and fire and thanked Belleville, Lyndhurst and the Essex County Sherriff’s Department for assisting in safeguarding everyone in the area.