Firearms History And Collecting
Military ordnance in Dundalk was actually trailer hitch cover, officials say
False Alarm in Dundalk: Military Ordnance Turns Out to Be Trailer Hitch Cover
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Dundalk, Maryland
A potentially dangerous situation unfolded in Dundalk, Maryland, when local authorities were alerted to a suspicious object that was initially believed to be military ordnance. At approximately 3:25 p.m. on September 24, officers responded to a call from the MedStar Health building on Merritt Boulevard after a concerned citizen reported what appeared to be a military device. The object was first suspected to be a Claymore mine, a type of anti-personnel explosive device commonly associated with military operations. The initial fear prompted a swift response, with the local police department immediately evacuating the building and establishing a secure perimeter around the area. Local law enforcement, in conjunction with the hazardous device team, worked rapidly to assess the potential threat, as Claymore mines are known for their deadly effects when deployed in active combat zones. The building was cleared, and a sense of urgency took over as authorities made sure no one entered the area until the situation was resolved. However, after a thorough investigation by the police and the hazardous device team, the object was determined to be nothing more than a novelty trailer hitch cover. The cover, likely designed to resemble military ordnance, caused confusion due to its resemblance to an actual Claymore mine, which led to the misidentification. Fortunately, the situation was cleared up without incident, and no injuries were reported. The false alarm, while a relief to all involved, also serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in todays world. Authorities took the threat seriously, understanding that swift action in situations involving potential explosive devices is essential. While it was ultimately a harmless mistake, the incident reinforced the need for caution, quick thinking, and well-trained response teams capable of handling a variety of emergencies. Its also an indication of the challenges faced by law enforcement and emergency services in distinguishing between actual threats and harmless objects that can be mistaken for dangerous ones. Officials from the Dundalk police department praised the quick response from all involved, including the hazardous device team, which ensured that no further danger was posed to the public. The evacuation and perimeter lockdown, while disruptive, were deemed necessary under the circumstances to protect the public. It was also noted that while such false alarms can create inconvenience and uncertainty, they are a part of the process of keeping citizens safe and preventing actual tragedies. The incident was eventually resolved without significant disruption, and the building was reopened shortly after authorities confirmed the objects harmless nature. The novelty trailer hitch cover, which had initially caused panic, was removed and cataloged, ensuring it would no longer be mistaken for a threat.