Bomb Squad Removed Mortar Shell From Modesto Shed
Authorities cleared a military-grade device discovered during a gas leak inspection at a local residence.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Emergency Response
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The Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office removed a 1975 60mm mortar shell from a shed on Rexford Court in Modesto. The device was identified after an emergency crew arrived to investigate a reported gas leak.
Why it matters
Emergency responders discovered the hazardous material while securing the site for a potential gas leak. The incident highlights the risks posed by unexploded ordnance in residential areas.
The bomb squad recovered a 60mm mortar shell dated to 1975 from the backyard shed. The item was discovered following a 10:45 a.m. dispatch for a suspected gas leak.
The players
Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office
This local law enforcement agency holds jurisdiction over the county and manages the bomb squad that disposed of the mortar shell.
Modesto Fire Department
The city agency responsible for emergency fire services and hazardous materials initial assessments in Modesto.
The details
Fire crews originally arrived at the Rexford Court home to address a potential gas leak. Upon inspection of a shed on the property, officials identified household chemicals and the military-grade explosive, triggering the mobilization of the bomb squad.
Timeline
A Modesto Fire Department engine crew was dispatched to the Rexford Court residence at 10:45 a.m. on October 14, 2026.
The bomb squad arrived on October 14, 2026, to safely remove the explosive device.
Seasonal Patterns
This recovery follows the established pattern of specialized bomb disposal teams responding to the discovery of historical military ordnance in residential settings. Such incidents remain rare but require significant inter-agency coordination between fire crews and hazardous device experts.
Residents who encounter unidentified military hardware should immediately vacate the premises and avoid disturbing the object. Contact the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office or local emergency services to report the discovery rather than attempting to handle or move the material.
The takeaway
Discoveries of dormant explosive devices serve as a reminder to report suspicious items in household sheds immediately. Public safety depends on professionals managing these potentially dangerous items to prevent accidental detonation.
Further reading
For more on local safety operations, visit the Emergency Response section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Fresno Bee.
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