Unattended Suitcase Left By Mail-In Ballot Box In South Jersey: Police

EGG HARBOR TWP., NJ — An unattended suitcase left near the mail-in ballot box at the Egg Harbor Township Municipal Building raised concerns Monday, police said, but an investigation proved that there was no reason to be alarmed.

A suitcase being left outside of town hall is unusual enough, Egg Harbor Township police said in a release, but extra precautions were taken as it was discovered Monday afternoon - the day before the presidential election.

The Atlantic City Bomb Squad arrived and x-rayed the travel-sized suitcase, police said. The suitcase had children's items inside of it, and police believe it was inadvertently left behind after a child custody swap.

"Our investigation revealed that at no time was anyone in danger. There are several cameras that captured the child exchange, and it was determined that the suitcase had also been moved to the location closer to the ballot box," police said. "It did not appear that it was intentionally placed anywhere near that location, but rather left behind."

Administrative offices were closed for less than an hour while the investigation was underway.

"Please remember, if you see something, say something. We would rather err on the side of caution when it comes to your safety," police said.