Live Pipe Bomb Found on Popular Northern California Hiking Trail
On Wednesday, authorities discovered and safely disarmed a pipe bomb on the West Weaver Creek Trail near downtown Weaverville, California. The suspicious device was first reported by a local resident who spotted a “metal pipe, capped on both ends with visible drill holes” in the dirt about half a mile south of town, according to the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office.
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Bomb Squad was called in and confirmed the device was a live improvised explosive. “Basically, they blew the end cap off it, examined it, and determined that it was an actual IED,” said Trinity County Sheriff-Coroner Tim Saxon.
Though such devices are rare, Saxon noted that similar explosives have been found sporadically over the years across the county, state, and nation.
The trail was temporarily closed while authorities conducted a thorough search for any additional threats. After finding none, officials reopened the area to the public.
The Bureau of Land Management, which oversees the land where the device was located, is leading the ongoing investigation.
Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are reminded to stay alert and report any suspicious items to authorities immediately to help keep Northern California trails safe.
