On Dec. 14, 2023, Collin County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a potential pipe bomb report near Scott Cemetery along County Road 161.
Upon arrival, deputies secured the area and identified an item wrapped in black tape. The sheriff’s deputies then requested aid from the Plano Police Department Bomb Squad. Local Profile reached out to the Collin County Sheriff's Office for comment but did not receive a response prior to publishing.
Personnel from the Plano PD confirmed that the object was indeed an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The Plano PD Bomb Squad effectively disposed of the device, eliminating any potential threat.
According to NBC 5, Larry Hankey said that he initially noticed the object while visiting the cemetery on Saturday, where his late parents and wife are interred.
"I saw something on the ground so I kind of kicked it with my foot. I didn't kick it hard. I just nudged it with my foot," Hankey told NBC 5. "Then I said, 'I ain't gonna pick it up', so I just left it there."
Hankey later decided to report the object, characterized as a cylinder covered in black tape, telling NBC 5, "I should've called it in earlier."
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) was enlisted to aid in the investigation of the incident. According to the sheriff’s office, there is no evidence suggesting additional danger to the public.
“Our sincere appreciation to the Plano Texas Police Department Bomb Squad for their rapid and effective response,” the Collin County Sheriff's Office said in a statement.