PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT

May 28, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact Information: PolicePRUnit@slcgov.com

Media Request Form: https://police.slc.gov/mediarequest/

SLCPD Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) Kept Busy Over Memorial Day Weekend

SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit responded to two suspicious circumstance calls for service over the Memorial Day Weekend.

The first investigation started at 10:53 a.m. on Sunday, May 26, 2024, when SLC911 received information about a suspicious item found in a grassy area near 1400 North 7200 West. Due to the appearance of the item, officers requested assistance from the SLCPD’s Hazardous Devices Unit. Detectives used a robot to take photos of the object. After a thorough investigation, detectives rendered the item safe. Due to the ongoing investigation, no additional information about the item can be released.

As detectives investigated the suspicious circumstance on 7200 West, SLC911 received information about unknown items found in a rental car at Salt Lake City International Airport. The items included components typically used for controlled explosives, such as construction or demolition. HDU detectives responded and safely secured the items. Detectives are continuing their investigation.

The Salt Lake City Police Department reminds community members to never approach or handle unknown or potentially dangerous items. Instead, immediately call 9-1-1.

Two photos from the investigation on 7200 West are being released. Media may use these photos with credit to the Salt Lake City Police Department.

No additional information is available for release.

The Salt Lake City Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) is an integral component of the department’s Special Operations Division. HDU members pride themselves on being at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and advanced training in the detection and response to hazardous material and explosive devices. HDU specialists undergo rigorous training to attain specialized certifications, ensuring they are equipped with the expertise necessary to assess, render safe, and remove hazardous devices and explosive materials from the community. By leveraging state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, HDU maintains operational readiness and enhances its effectiveness in safeguarding the public. The SLCPD HDU is dedicated to continuous improvement, regularly updating its protocols and procedures to adapt to evolving threats and emerging technologies. Collaborating closely with other public safety groups in Salt Lake City and actively participating in the Utah Bomb Squad Task Force and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, HDU ensures seamless coordination and maximum efficiency in responding to potential threats. Through its commitment to excellence, technological innovation, and ongoing training initiatives, HDU remains at the forefront of explosive device disposal and hazardous material response, helping to ensure the safety and security of communities both locally and nationally.

Photo: Detectives with the Salt Lake City Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit prepare a robot to go inspect a potentially dangerous item found in a grassy area near 1400 North 7200 West (SLCPD photo – May 26, 2024).

Photo: A Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) robot prepares to inspect a potentially dangerous item found in a grassy area near 1400 North 7200 West (SLCPD photo – May 26, 2024).

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