A neighborhood in Oceanside, California, was placed under restrictions Sunday after a collection of bottles and cans bearing “biohazard” warnings and “top secret” labels prompted a bomb squad response.
The suspicious containers were found near Castellanos Drive and Vandegrift Boulevard in the city’s North Valley neighborhood at about 10:15 a.m., Fox 5 reported.
The Oceanside Fire Department first sent a hazardous materials team to examine the items. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Bomb/Arson Unit was later called in as a precaution.
Officials said the cans and bottles displayed biohazard symbols, were wrapped in caution tape and carried the words “top secret.”
Emergency crews created a safety perimeter as hazmat specialists and sheriff’s officials worked to identify the contents of the containers.
Vandegrift Boulevard was closed between Castellanos Drive and East Parker Street while the investigation continued.
Residents in the 700 block of Arthur Avenue and the 4900 block of El Mirlo Drive were also instructed to shelter in place during the emergency response, according to Fox 5.
The shelter-in-place order has since been lifted, although authorities have not announced when the road closure will end.
Officials said there is no longer an explosive threat, but they have not confirmed whether the containers contain an explosive material or another hazardous substance.
No injuries have been reported.
The investigation remains underway. Authorities are urging the public to stay away from the area and follow all directions issued by emergency personnel.
