Update: Object initially reported as unexploded ordnance in Puna found to be novelty grenade

Update at 4:18 p.m. Nov. 30: At 3:15 p.m. today, Big Island police determined that what was initially reported as unexploded ordnance in the area of Kahakai Boulevard near the Woodland Center in Pāhoa was in fact an inoperative novelty grenade.

The roadway, which was closed while police investigated, is now open and there is no threat to the public.

Original story published at 3:12 p.m. Nov. 30: Today at 11: 59 a.m., Puna patrol officers responded to a call about the discovery of a possible unexploded ordnance in the area of Kahakai Boulevard near the Woodland Center in Pāhoa.

Responding officers determined that the ordnance appeared to be a grenade, but could not determine its volatility.

As a precautionary measure, the surrounding business establishments were evacuated and police are on scene and are awaiting the arrival of the Hawai’i Inter-island Bomb Squad for safe removal and disposal of the ordnance.

Police are asking that the public stay away from this area for the next several hours.

Police are taking this opportunity to remind Hawai‘i Island residents who might find explosives to leave them alone and immediately call 911 or the Hawai‘i Police Department’s non-emergency line at 808-935-3311.

Those who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300.