Authorities deactivated a device manufactured to look reportedly look like an explosive in Toms River this morning.
According to police, at approximately 9:15 a.m., Police, Fire, and EMS units responded to Honda of Toms River, located at 346 Route 37 east, after Honda workers discovered reported a pipe bomb in the parking lot.
Businesses and surrounding home in the area of Dale and Hill Street were evacuated as a precautionary measure.
The New Jersey State Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit responded to evaluate the device.
The unit specialists deployed a remotely operated robot to approach the device and observe it with a video camera. They then utilized a portable x-ray to internally examine the object.
Finally, wearing protective gear, they approached and disabled the object. The area was given the “all clear” at 11:30 am.
It was determined to not be an explosive or incendiary device however; it was manufactured to look like one.
Police described the object as a metal cylinder approximately 12 inches long and 5 inches wide. It was wrapped in black tape and had several wires and electrical connecters protruding from the ends.
Authorities believe that the object was placed there intentionally however no motive as of yet had been determined.
The investigators are reviewing video footage and speaking to potential witnesses.
Also assisting the Toms River Criminal Investigative Bureau were members of the Ocean County Prosecutors Office, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, Fire Companies #1 and #2, and Toms River EMS.