Austin PD: Package not a bomb

By Glynis Crawford Smith

The Highlander

UPDATE: In addition to finding the package not a threat, the investigation determined it was not left with malicious intent, only the remains of a school egg drop project left in the cleaning of an automobile.

An investigation continues by the Marble Falls Police Department into a suspicious package found at the car wash in the 1600 block of Mormon Mill Road about 11:45 a.m. Monday.

The package was cleared by explosive ordinance technicians from the Austin Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety, who were transported quickly to the scene via APD helicopter.

“It was determined this was not an explosive, but it still is a suspicious package to be left where it was,” said Criminal Investigations Capt. Glenn Hanson. “We don't know if it was placed there intentionally to cause a reaction by law enforcement or if it is something innocent.

“So, our investigation will continue into who left it and why. If we find it was to cause some reaction, that falls under the category of 'terroristic threat.' That would be an appropriate charge.”

The initial call came from a woman who noticed the cardboard box leaning against a wall by the vacuum cleaners at the business north of Grand Bank of Texas, according to Sgt. Investigator Barry Greer on the scene.

After a preliminary investigation, the MFPD cordoned off the road from Marble Heights to Claremont and evacuated the nearest business, Hill Country Foot and Ankle Clinic at 1001 Marble Heights, according to Hanson.

Others nearby, including residents at Stony Ridge and Mayfield apartments, were asked to shelter in place until given the all clear.

“We are thankful for the understanding of our citizens and motorists who cooperated in maintaining our perimeter and we are grateful to our partners at APD and DPS for their quick help.”