'Inert" Grenade Found Attached To Utility Pole Near Synagogue In Ocean County

LAKEWOOD, NJ — Authorities are investigating the source of a grenade found attached to a utility pole in Lakewood on Sunday, the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office said.

The grenade, described only as "a device" by the prosecutor's office, was reported to Lakewood police about 7:45 a.m. and was found in the area of 4th Street and Forest Avenue, Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Lakewood Police Chief Gregory Meyer said in a joint announcement.

The New Jersey State Police Bomb Disposal Unit responded and secured the device, they said.

"The device was found to be inert and non-explosive," authorities said. "There is no danger to the public and this remains an active and ongoing investigation."

The Lakewood Scoop reported the item was a grenade and said it was attached to a utility pole near a synagogue. The report included photos and video showing the grenade.

The Secure Community Network, which focuses on safety and security of the Jewish community, said it was near the Satmar Bais Medrash synagogue.

"The NJSP bomb squad responded and ensured the safety of the area, to include the synagogue. We thank our law enforcement and local partners for working quickly to ensure the safety of the community," the organization said in a tweet.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Lakewood Police Officer Alex Guzman at 732-363-0200, ext. 5341, or Sgt. David Petracca of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, ext. 2186.