Florida Goodwill Store Evacuated After Live Hand Grenade Found in Donation Bin
PALATKA, Fla. — A live hand grenade discovered in a donation bin at the Goodwill on South State Road 19 prompted an immediate evacuation Thursday, according to the Palatka Police Department. The explosive device forced store closure and a bomb squad response, raising safety concerns in the community.
Officers responded after the grenade was spotted among donated items before they reached the sales floor. Police evacuated staff, customers and nearby areas out of an abundance of caution while securing the scene.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad took custody of the device, transported it to a safe location, and conducted a remote detonation to eliminate the threat, authorities said. There were no injuries reported during the incident.
Despite the confirmed explosive, officials have not yet determined how the grenade ended up in the donation bin or who left it there — leaving unanswered questions for investigators.
Police emphasized safety protocols, saying, “If you ever encounter a hand grenade or other explosive device, don’t touch or handle it: leave the area and call law enforcement immediately,” according to the Palatka Police statement.
The evacuation underscores ongoing risks when donated goods include hazardous materials, prompting renewed reminders from law enforcement to carefully inspect items before donation.
Authorities say the store will reopen once cleared and no further threats are detected. The investigation into how the device was placed in the donation bin is ongoing. Expect police updates as they work to determine responsibility and ensure donor safety.