November 23, 2004
From NBC12 News
Photo: Crews recover what were described as 'pressure devices' that may be behind the 'mystery booms' that have been heard in North Richmond since November second.
Richmond fire officials say they have uncovered several devices in North Richmond that are at least part of the reason residents in the area have heard loud booms at various times since November 2nd.
Fire Captain Mike Martin says the items recovered are “pressure producing devices, not incendiary devices.” Martin says the items would produce a loud noise “…and a blast.”
He says they could be dangerous to anyone standing close by.
Martin says the devices were found in several locations near Laburnum Avenue and Hermitage Road both above and below ground. He says the areas are being considered a ‘crime scene’ and that authorities are processing these items as evidence.
It is understood that at least one of the devices was recovered intact.
Richmond Police, Fire and Public Utilities crews started a combined search about 8:30 this (Tuesday) morning after deciding they had an idea what might be causing the noise. Martin says they didn’t find exactly what they were looking for but something “very close.”
The 'booms' started in Richmond on election day and have happened several times a week since. Most have happened on the north part of town. On Sunday, authorities got 250 calls to report an afternoon boom.
City officials had ruled out construction, railroads or quarries, along with public utilities, military exercises and aviation activities.
(c) 2004. Jefferson Pilot Communications.
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