TOWN OF GIBSON, WI (WTAQ) – Deputies are saying that a backpack found in a Manitowoc County ditch on Wednesday was deemed safe after officials initially found explosive-like material inside.
A citizen initially reported the backpack on State Highway 147, east of County Highway R in the town of Gibson.
That individual initially believed the backpack to contain items related to drug manufacturing paraphernalia.
Upon arrival, detectives discovered items inside that could be considered volatile and possibly explosive.
Outagamie/Brown County bomb squad officials were able to deem the items safe through x-rays and all items are currently being analyzed.
There were indications that the subject(s) attempted to detonate the item when it was possibly thrown from a vehicle into the ditch, according to investigators.
Lieutenant Dave Remiker with the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office says, unfortunately, it’s not difficult to find information about how to set an explosive.
“Online videos will give you or show you information that is very similar to these types of set-ups,” he explains.
He adds that often times with explosives, a small package can carry a big bang.
“I’ve seen videos online related to some of the components of it where they’ve blown up cars,” says Lieutenant Remiker.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to call the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office, Lieutenant Dave Remiker at (920) 683-4214 or you can also remain anonymous by calling Manitowoc County Crime Stoppers at (920) 683-4466.
