Routine property cleanup took a dangerous turn when local workers stumbled upon an undetonated Vietnam War-era explosive in a residential backyard.

Crews from The Park Group were assisting with clearing out a barn when a worker picked up the heavy item among discarded trash. Realizing what it was, the worker quickly and safely set it down before notifying authorities via the non-emergency line.

The Cumberland County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) director and the Sheriff’s Office responded swiftly to the scene, later joined by the Knox County Bomb Squad and federal agents.

According to property owners, authorities spent roughly an hour and a half waiting for the bomb squad and FBI to arrive. Responders initially suspected the device might be a training dummy, but testing on its powder residue proved active when it caught fire.

The hazardous ordnance was safely transported to Fort Campbell for proper disposal.

The property owners praised The Park Group for their calm demeanor and quick thinking during the ordeal, noting that the crew handled the unexpected discovery with exceptional professionalism.