Friday afternoon Aug. 16, the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office was notified that two suspicious containers were discovered on the premises of the Centennial Livestock Auction, in the 100 block NW Frontage Rd., just east of Fort Collins.
Employees of Centennial observed two boxes they believed may have contain explosives. The LCSO immediately responded and evacuated about a one-block radius. Roadblocks were set up to ensure the safety of the public while the containers were isolated.
The Northern Colorado Bomb Squad arrived and conducted an inspection of the containers. The boxes were designed to contain 81mm mortar illumination rounds but it was determined that the containers were empty and no suspicious or dangerous contents were present.
Emergency personnel released the scene and nearby roads shortly after 7 p.m. No damage to property or injuries to persons were sustained during the investigation.
A 58-year old Fort Collins resident who brought the containers to the business to be auctioned was interviewed and no criminal charges are anticipated.
The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office and Northern Colorado Bomb Squad were supported by Fort Collins Police personnel, Poudre Fire Authority personnel, Poudre Valley Ambulance personnel, the Poudre Valley Hospital TEMS (Tactical EMS) unit and CSP troopers.