‘ALIOMANU — For the second time in less than a month, the U.S. Army’s 706th explosive ordnance disposal team flew in from Schofield Barracks on O‘ahu to destroy a device found on Kaua‘i’s shores. An area resident discovered the cylindrical
‘ALIOMANU — For the second time in less than a month, the U.S. Army’s 706th explosive ordnance disposal team flew in from Schofield Barracks on O‘ahu to destroy a device found on Kaua‘i’s shores.
An area resident discovered the cylindrical object on ‘Aliomanu Beach Tuesday morning and then notified authorities, a county press release states.
Kaua‘i police responded to secure the area and contacted the Army’s EOD. An explosive specialist from the Transportation Security Administration also came on scene to inspect the device.
Members of the Army’s EOD team arrived on Kaua‘i at 9:30 a.m. and moved the object to a remote location in Kapa‘a where it was destroyed at 11:20 a.m., the release states.
The device, an MK 58 Marine Marker, is about 21 inches long and weighs roughly 13 pounds. It is used by the U.S. Navy in air and sea rescue operations as a target marker and surface wind indicator. The marker contains two pyrotechnic candles, which can provide a continuous flame and white smoke for approximately 40 to 60 minutes.
The Kaua‘i Police Department reminds residents that if an object like this is found, please do not disturb it and alert police as soon as possible.
“These items can be dangerous if not handled properly,” said Kaua‘i Patrol Services Capt. Michael Contrades. “We are very grateful that the individual who discovered this device notified authorities immediately and did not attempt to handle it. This allowed us to have trained experts dispose of it in an efficient manner, ensuring the safety of surrounding residents.”
