Archived News Release from 2008

For Immediate Release

Redwood City Police Advise Community to Be Aware of and Report Suspicious Packages/Bottles

Redwood City, CA - January 9, 2008 - On Sunday, January 6, 2008, some children came across a 2-liter plastic soda bottle near the intersection of Grand Ave and Harrison Street. One child kicked the bottle, and the liquid from the bottle splashed onto another child, causing irritation to the child’s skin. Analysis showed that the bottle contained hydrochloric acid with residual of an unknown metal. Although the substance burned holes into her clothing, thankfully only minor irritation was reported. This is, however, a highly caustic substance and could have caused much greater injury.

The Redwood City Police Department is advising the community to be aware of any such suspicious bottles or other suspicious packages. Anyone who sees a suspicious object or package is strongly urged NOT to handle it. The proper action is to clear the immediate area and contact the Redwood City Police Department by dialing 911.

A suspicious package may have some of the following characteristics:

• Plastic bottle with tape affixed to the outside
• Protruding wires
• Strange odor coming from the package
• Excessive tape or string
• Rigid or bulky
• Oily stains

Community awareness is key to maintaining the public safety in Redwood City. Anyone with information regarding the suspicious package found on January 6, or with questions or information regarding this issue should contact Redwood City Police Department Detective Ed Feeney at (650) 780-7129.

Visit Redwood City’s award-winning website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, and local business. Take a look at the variety of City webcams at www.redwoodcity.org/webcam, and subscribe to Redwood City’s email newsletter or other documents by visiting www.redwoodcity.org/egov.

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Contacts:
Detective Ed Feeney
Redwood City Police Department
(650) 780-7129