On August 1, 2019, Parsons Police Officers were dispatched to the 1700 block of Morgan for a report of a 'land mine' in a yard.
Parsons Police responded to the call and established that there was an unknown device that appeared to be some type of ordinance. Parsons Police always defer to the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) when dealing with possible explosives or unknown devices. Many bombs are home made, but still resemble military grade devices. Objects that could be Improvised Explosive Devices (IED's) are treated just like they are active, at all times the KHP Bomb Squad is contacted.

KHP responded to the scene from as far away as Wichita, to remove and destroy the device. Once KHP arrived they take precautions and use equipment that takes an x-ray of the device to see if has explosive material in it. This device was Inert, meaning it did not have an explosive component inside. The device was collected and taken to a safe location to be taken apart.

This device was found to be a home-made device that may have been used to propel a liquid such as paint. Members of the bomb squad advised officers that they took the correct precautions. A device constructed in such a manner could be used to propel any caustic or harmful liquid or even used to set off shotgun ammunition.

Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks said, "there were two homes evacuated and the entire block was blocked off for added safety. I want to thank the citizens in the area for being understanding and allowing first responders to do their jobs. Situations like this, that turn out to be nothing are great training for officers and city staff in the event of a live bomb."

This continues to be an on-going investigation and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspd.com.