— from Sheriff Ron Krebs —

On Monday, August 6, at approximately 10:30 a.m. an Orcas Island resident reported a suspicious item on a Turtleback Mountain trail. Photographs and a description of the item were sent to the Washington State Patrol Bomb Squad who then responded to Orcas Island to investigate.

At approximately 7 p.m., the explosive was neutralized. The item was determined to be an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) by Members of the team.

The Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms is assisting the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office with the investigation into the IED.

**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**