Bomb squad called to synagogue in Lakewood, NJ after grenade found nearby

A bomb squad is called to a Satmar Hassidic synagogue in Lakewood, New Jersey after a grenade was found strapped to a utility pole nearby, according to local reports.

According to NBC Philadelphia, the state bomb squad arrived and “the device was found to be inert and nonexplosive. There is no danger to the public and this remains an active and ongoing investigation,” according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.

UPDATE ON GRENADE IN LAKEWOOD:

– Police were notified shortly before 8:00 AM about a grenade strapped to a utility pole across the street from a synagogue in Lakewood

– Upon arrival, police determined the grenade appeared real, and called for bomb squad

– The NJSP removed the… pic.twitter.com/r2fw7UxUub

— The Lakewood Scoop (@LakewoodScoop) November 19, 2023

The Anti-Defamation League says that “at a time when communities are already experiencing a rise in hate, a grenade outside of a synagogue stokes fear in Lakewood, NJ, a hub of American Jewish religious life. We urge law enforcement to thoroughly investigate this threat, and as a community, we will stay vigilant but we must not be intimidated.”