A possible grenade discovered at the scene of a Batesville house fire forced firefighters to change how they battled the blaze, according to the Batesville Fire Department.
Firefighters were called back to a home on Broadwater after receiving a report of another possible fire inside the structure.
While crews were en route, dispatchers relayed new information that a grenade had been found at the house.
Authorities did not immediately know whether the grenade was live or inert.
SAFETY CONCERNS CHANGED FIRE ATTACK
The Batesville Fire Department said the discovery created a serious safety concern for firefighters at the scene.
Because crews could not determine the condition of the grenade, firefighters were unable to conduct what the department described as a normal interior fire attack.
Instead, crews were forced to remain at a safer distance while working to keep the fire under control.
Fire personnel used Ladder 1’s aerial equipment to protect nearby exposures and prevent the flames from spreading beyond the burning home.
HOME DECLARED A COMPLETE LOSS
The Batesville Fire Department said the home suffered extensive damage and was considered a complete loss.
Despite the property damage, the department emphasized that everyone involved remained safe.
“Belongings can be replaced, people cannot,” the department said.
FBI AND STATE POLICE BOMB SQUAD INVOLVED
The Batesville Fire Department identified the incident as involving the FBI and the Arkansas State Police Bomb Squad.
The department did not provide additional information about the grenade, including whether it was ultimately determined to be live or inert.
No injuries were reported in the information released by the fire department.
Fire officials praised the response as a team effort by everyone involved.
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KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE
LOCATION:
Broadwater
Batesville, Arkansas
AGENCY:
Batesville Fire Department
OTHER AGENCIES REFERENCED:
FBI
Arkansas State Police Bomb Squad
WHAT WAS FOUND:
A grenade
STATUS OF GRENADE WHEN FIREFIGHTERS RESPONDED:
Unknown whether live or inert
FIRE RESPONSE:
Firefighters could not conduct a normal attack because of safety concerns
Ladder 1’s aerial was used to protect nearby exposures
DAMAGE:
Extensive
Home declared a complete loss
INJURIES:
None reported
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