Hempstead County, Ark. – On Monday afternoon, deputies with the Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Beards Bluff on Millwood Lake after a local resident reported that a guitar case might contain an explosive device that had been tossed into the water.
Initial report and investigation
At approximately 3 p.m., officers made contact with a Jacksonville, Arkansas man who told them he believed a bomb could be hidden inside the case and that he had thrown it into the lake. While searching the suspect’s vehicle, deputies uncovered several disassembled computer components, as well as pliers and other tools placed in a fire ring at a nearby campsite.
Details about the man’s identity and any connection to the alleged device were not immediately released.
Bomb squad response
Because of the potential threat, the Hempstead County Office of Emergency Management called in the Arkansas State Police Bomb Squad. The specialized team arrived near dusk and began a systematic sweep of the shoreline and surrounding area. A boat supplied by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assisted the search, and wildlife enforcement officers from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission provided additional support.
The search was halted Monday night due to darkness and resumed early Tuesday morning, continuing the effort to locate any suspicious material.
Public safety reminder
Authorities reminded residents to avoid approaching or handling any suspicious objects that could be explosive. Anyone who observes a potentially dangerous item should contact law enforcement immediately.
This incident underscores the coordinated response capabilities of local, state, and federal agencies working together to protect the community. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials will release further information as it becomes available.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
