Press Release  Explosive Device in Haverhill Rendered Safe by Bomb Squad

HAVERHILL — State Police Bomb Squad technicians safely disposed of an explosive device in Haverhill and nearby residents are being allowed back into their homes, said Haverhill Police Chief Robert Pistone, Haverhill Fire Chief Robert O'Brien, and State Fire Marshal Jon Davine.

At about 8:00 this morning, Haverhill Police were notified of an item of concern at 5 Rosebud Ave. The Haverhill Police Department and Haverhill Fire Department responded to the scene and, based on their observations, requested assistance from the State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office.

In an abundance of caution, nearby residents were evacuated while Bomb Squad technicians assessed potential hazards. Based on their assessments using robotic platforms and other tools, technicians determined that the device posed a significant danger and could not safely be transported. They conducted a controlled detonation to render it safe and disposed of additional energetic material found at the scene.

A resident of the Rosebud Avenue home was located late this morning driving a Freightliner on Route 495 in Wrentham. State Police initiated a motor vehicle stop and took the man into custody. Route 495 was shut down while the Freightliner was swept for hazards and re-opened once the vehicle was cleared. The resident, a man in his 60s, was transported to an area hospital. Haverhill Police will pursue criminal charges in connection with the device.

Residents in the surrounding area are being allowed to re-enter their homes. Rosebud Avenue will remain closed for a short time until emergency vehicles clear the scene.

###