'Small Metal Pot' Detonates on Metro Detroit Railroad Tracks

WARREN, MI — Authorities are investigating an explosive device that detonated on railroad tracks near Warren Friday afternoon and jarred a Canadian Railroad engine pulling 20 cars, according to multiple reports.

On his Facebook page, Warren Mayor Jim Fouts said the explosion near Hoover Road and Groesbeck Highway didn't cause any damage, and it doesn't appear to have been terrorist related. "At most," he wrote, "it could best be described as a small explosion."

Authorities from the FBI, Homeland Security, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and Michigan State Police Bomb Squad have joined Warren and Detroit police departments in the investigation.

Authorities aren't releasing many details details, but told WWJ Radio the device is a “small metal pot,” similar to a pressure cooker.

Michigan State Police confirmed to the radio station that the engineer of a train pulling 20 cars on the Canadian Railroad Tracks heard and felt the explosion.

There was no damage to the rail line or to the train.

Authorities searched the tracks for a mile in either direction, but didn't find any additional devices.

Authorities are continuing to investigate in the area.

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