Possible explosive device prompts evacuation of Lincoln apartment building

Lincoln, Neb. (KLKN) — A northeast Lincoln apartment building was evacuated as a precaution Wednesday after authorities found an unknown device that prompted a response from Lincoln Fire and Rescue’s hazardous device team.

The investigation unfolded at an apartment building near 49th Street and Walker Avenue.

According to the Lincoln Police Department, officers were assisting with a parole search of one of the units when they found drugs and an unknown device inside.

The discovery prompted authorities to evacuate the building as a precaution and call Lincoln Fire and Rescue to assist with the investigation.

LFR Battalion Chief Jeremy Gegg said crews were treating the unknown item as a possible explosive device while they worked to determine what it was.

“Any time we’re dealing with a potential explosive device, it’s a very slow and methodical process, so we will be here for some time,” Gegg said.

Gegg said LFR’s hazardous device technicians would examine the suspicious items and determine how to safely approach them.

Crews were looking at a number of items of concern inside the unit, and the full extent of what was found remained unclear while crews were at the scene.

Police arrested 41-year-old Desmond Hauser for possession of a controlled substance.

LPD said there is no threat to the public as the investigation continues.

Authorities have not yet said what the unknown device was determined to be.