Suspicious item at Stoneham gas station prompts bomb squad response

STONEHAM, Mass. — A busy section of Stoneham was closed to traffic during the height of the Tuesday morning commute after a suspicious item was found at a gas station.

Local and state police were called to the Mobil in the area of Main and South streets near Spot Pond at approximately 7:22 a.m. following a report of device found outside of the gas station.

The intersection of Route 28 at South Street and North Border Road near the Fellsway was cordoned off and a bomb squad was called in to investigate.

Video from the scene showed what appeared to be a cluster of pink tubes with wires hanging out resting in the mulch.

The item in question ultimately turned out to be a battery pack that was likely attached to an electric vehicles, according to state police.

Heavily-armored bomb squad members were spotted operating a robotic dog in the parking lot as they examined the device.

The area reopened to motorists shortly at approximately 9:30 a.m.

“I want to thank the residents and business owners in the area for their patience, as we had to close streets and evacuate nearby homes to ensure that there was no threat to public safety,” said Fire Chief James McIntyre. “Our investigation into this item is now complete, and I am pleased to report there is no danger.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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