Suspicious Packages in Cape May Deemed Safe Following Extensive Investigation
On July 8, 2024, at approximately 5:29 PM, the Cape May Police Department received a report of an unattended package near the intersection of Ocean Street and Washington Street in Cape May.
Responding officers promptly arrived at the scene to assess the item and determine its origin.
Suspicious Packages in Cape May Deemed Safe Following Extensive Investigation
Upon evaluation, the package was classified as suspicious, prompting the immediate establishment of a safety perimeter and evacuation of nearby civilians.
Cape May Police Sgt. Anthony Genaro arrived to confirm the initial assessment and called for the assistance of the Cape May County Sheriff’s Office and the Cape May Fire Department.
With the arrival of fire department personnel, a unified command was formed by Sgt. Genaro and Lt. Edward Zebrowski. They expanded the safety zone around the package and ensured the evacuation of all civilians from nearby stores.
Further support was requested from the Cape May County CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives) team and the Atlantic City Bomb Squad to conduct a thorough evaluation of the package.
During a search of the area, officers discovered another package nearby with a similar description.
This led to the further expansion of the safety perimeter to ensure maximum safety for citizens and visitors.
K-9 units from the Cape May County Sheriff’s Office conducted a sweep of the nearby pedestrian mall.
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The City of Cape May Office of Emergency Management and the Cape May Fire Police arrived on the scene to assist with crowd and traffic control, supplementing the command staff managing the incident.
The Atlantic City Bomb Squad was briefed on the situation upon their arrival. They conducted surveillance of the packages and sent an officer downrange for a closer inspection.
The investigation determined that neither package posed a threat, and the area was declared safe.
Cape May Police Detective Kelley Shustack has been assigned as the lead investigator for the incident and will continue to follow up on the case.
Cape May Emergency Services expressed gratitude to all the responding agencies for their swift and coordinated response, which ensured the safety of the community.
Cape May Police and Fire Departments also extended their thanks to the individual who reported the package, emphasizing the importance of the “See Something, Say Something” campaign.
They reminded the public that vigilant citizens and visitors play a crucial role in maintaining community safety.
More information about New Jersey’s “See Something, Say Something” campaign can be found at New Jersey’s Homeland Security website.