Bomb Squad Called To Independence High School In Ashburn For Unapproved Science Project

ASHBURN, VA — Independence High School in Ashburn was evacuated for 30 minutes on Monday morning as the Loudoun County Bomb Squad investigated a suspicious device. Authorities determined that the device was an unapproved science project.

On Monday morning, school personnel told the school resource officer that there were burn marks on a sidewalk at the school. Authorities identified the students involved and determined that the original incident occurred on Saturday.

During the investigation, officials found a "suspicious device" at the school, according to a news release. The bomb squad and the fire marshal's office were called to the scene to investigate. They evacuated the school for 30 minutes as the device was rendered safe, authorities said.

Investigators said the device was part of an unapproved school science project. Authorities did not provide details about the nature of the device.

An investigation is still ongoing by the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with Loudoun County Public Schools.