By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
Update from La Grande Police: “We confirmed that the suspicious device was an improvised explosive device (IED) and was safely seized and destroyed following its discovery earlier today. The device, approximately 8 inches in length and 3 inches in diameter, was a homemade explosive constructed within a pressurized container wrapped in electricians tape. It contained explosive material and BBs, posing a threat to public safety.
Thanks to the swift and professional response of the Oregon State Police Explosives Unit, the device was safely neutralized without incident. No injuries were reported. We are extremely grateful to the Oregon State Police Explosives Unit for their prompt and skilled response. Their actions ensured the safety of our community.
We would like to remind the public that if anyone encounters a suspicious object or device, do not touch or approach it. Instead, contact law enforcement immediately by calling 911. If anyone has any information that may assist in this investigation we urge them to contact the La Grande Police Department at 541.963.1017.
The investigation into this incident remains ongoing. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.”
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UPDATE: From La Grande Police. The area near Jefferson Avenue and Greenwood Street has been cleared. The suspicious device was safely removed and disposed of by the Oregon State Police Bomb Squad. The roadway has been reopened.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the La Grande Police Department at (541) 963-1017.

LA GRANDE – (Release from La Grande Police Department) This morning at approximately 6:30 a.m., the La Grande Police Department received a report from an employee of Goss Motors regarding a suspicious homemade device located on the sidewalk near the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and Greenwood Street.
La Grande Police officers responded to the scene and, out of an abundance of caution, contacted the Oregon State Police Bomb Squad, which is currently en route to assess and handle the situation.
As a precautionary measure, Jefferson Avenue is closed between Greenwood Street and Fir Street. We ask the public to avoid the area until the situation has been resolved.
If anyone has information related to this incident, please contact the La Grande Police Department at (541) 963-1017.