Suspicious Package At State Rep.'s Hatboro Office (ICYMI)

By Justin Heinze, Patch Staff

HATBORO, PA — The suspicious package discovered at a local state representative's office Wednesday night poses no threat to the public, officials said.

The incident occurred at around 8:54 p.m. at the offices of State Rep. Thomas Murt (R-153) on 19. South York Road in Hatboro.

Police said they were tipped off about a large blue duffle bag placed against the front doors of the office.

Authorities determined the situation as suspicious "based on the appearance and placement of the bag, and due to concerns of recent explosive devices being sent to national political leaders," Hatboro Police Chief James E. Gardner said in a statement.

Nearby residents were evacuated. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Department Bomb Squad responded to the scene to investigate. York Road was closed down near Murt's office by Moreland Avenue.

Bomb technicians on the scene used specialized equipment to investigate the bag, ultimately determining that it contained only miscellaneous items and other bags, police said. It is believed it was left as a donation for individuals in need.

"In today's world, we always encourage folks to report anything suspicious to authorities," Gardner added. "If you see something, say something. We are fortunate here in Montgomery County to have the resources and professionals to safely deal with situations such as this."

A shelter in place order was given but lifted before 11 p.m., authorities said. Residents returned safely to their homes shortly thereafter. The borough announced at around 11:15 p.m. that there was no danger to the public, and York Road was reopened to traffic.

The incident occurs after multiple "destructive devices" were sent to prominent members of the Democratic Party across the countryearlier Wednesday, including Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and philanthropist George Soros.

Murt, 58, is a Republican in Pennsylvania's 152nd District.

Hatboro Police were assisted by the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, Enterprise Fire Company, Second Alarmers Rescue Association, Hatboro Emergency Management, and Upper Moreland Police on the scene.