Troopers Investigating Suspicious Item

Lewes, DE - The Delaware State Police investigated a report of a suspicious item in the Lowes parking lot Monday afternoon.

The investigation began around 12:00 p.m. Monday December 28, 2015 when a 9-1-1 call was placed by a manager of the Lowes located at 20364 Plantations Road after locating a suspicious item in a shopping cart located in the parking lot of the business.

Troopers responded to the Lowes and observed an approximate 12"-15" long PVC pipe with two end caps attached and immediately contacted the State Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit. The store parking lot was sealed off at the entrances and patrons and employees were asked to remain in the building for approximately an hour before being allowed to leave the area. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit examined and removed the empty and hollow pipe from the shopping cart and determined it to be non-explosive, later rendering the area safe.

Investigator were able to establish that a male customer purchased the pipe with the end caps attached earlier that morning along with some other items. When he pushed the shopping cart out to his vehicle, he unloaded the other items out of the cart and failed to retrieve the pipe that was left on the infant seat area of the cart.

No charges will be filed in this incident and the Lowes was reopened for business around 2:30 p.m.

Although there is no known threat to Delaware, state officials are reminding citizens of Delaware of the important role they have in helping to keep our state safe by reporting suspicious situations or circumstances that could be related to crime or possible acts of terrorism. The Delaware State Police encourage increased vigilance against criminals and terrorists. If you observe activity that appears suspicious, a threat to public safety, or related to a potential terrorist event, please report it to law enforcement by calling 9-1-1 or the Delaware's Anti-Terrorism Tip Line at 1-800-Force12. The public can also submit a suspicious activity report through DIAC's website @ www.dediac.org. We each have a vital and essential role to play to ensure the safety of our citizens and we appreciate your assistance.