Value Village in Chatham evacuated after relic grenade found inside. (Photo by Paul Pedro)
Chatham

Antique grenade scare at Value Village in Chatham

The military has been called to dispose of an antique World War II hand grenade found at the Value Village store in Chatham.

Chatham-Kent police were called around 11 a.m. on Thursday and evacuated the business at 80 Keil Drive South in Chatham for public safety reasons.

CK Police Sergeant Shawn Tremblay told CK News Today that the old grenade was found in a bin at Value Village after it was brought in as a donation.

"Unknown at this time whether it is a live or a fake [grenade]. We've contacted the military and the military is going to be attending to retrieve the hand grenade," said Tremblay.

Tremblay said the store was busy at the time of the discovery and the military will be disposing of the grenade.

"They're going to remove it [the antique grenade] from the store and then they're going to dispose of it. So as of right now, Value Village will be closed until the military arrives," the sergeant noted.

Value Village will be closed for the day.

No injuries were reported.

Police remind residents to be cautious when donating or discarding old memorabilia or items that may appear to be weapons, ammunition, or explosive devices, whether inherited, found in storage, or acquired.

Police ask the public not to transport or drop off the above items or donate them if they're unsure about the nature of an item. Instead, contact CK police at their non-emergency line at 519-352-1234.

Value Village in Chatham evacuated after relic grenade found inside. (Photo by Paul Pedro)

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