The Knoxville Police Department has ordered an evacuation of residents within a 3,000-foot radius of suspected explosives found on Mynderse Avenue. Around 2:15 p.m. on Thursday, KPD and Fire Department personnel responded to CMC Recycling at 2706 Mynderse Avenue for reports of employees finding a 5×5 box containing suspected dynamite that was smoking.

Authorities closed Western Avenue between Texas Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue and evacuated businesses in the area. KPD’s Bomb Squad responded to the scene to initiate an initial assessment with the use of a drone.

The assessment was unable to positively identify the contents of the box. Out of an abundance of caution, Bomb Squad technicians believe the box contains explosives. KPD says efforts to evacuate the impacted area are ongoing.

KPD and KFD are being assisted by deputies with the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Residents ordered to evacuate are being sheltered at the Jacob Building. KPD says there is no evidence to suggest foul play or the box was left on site maliciously.