October 16,2006

Hinsdale Police Warn the Public to

Beware of Suspicious Packages and Devices

In early September 2006 an improvised explosive device was placed in a trash can in the main train station. The device detonated causing little damage and no injuries.

A letter was recently received threatening that another device may be detonated in a public place.

While the threat of an additional device is not imminent, the Hinsdale Police would like to make sure that the public is aware that a threat was received and to be aware of any type of suspicious packages or objects while in public places.

If you notice an unattended backpack, briefcase, bag, box or anything that could conceal an explosive device please do not examine it, stay away, and immediately call 9-1-1.

"I would rather have our officers respond to a hundred incidents of someone leaving their lunch or briefcase behind at the train station than have someone not call us," said Hinsdale Chief Bradley Bloom.

Hinsdale Police, in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, and the U.S. Postal Inspector continue to investigate the September incident and the recent letter threatening another incident.

"We are taking the original incident seriously as well as the recent threatening letter seriously," said Chief Bloom. "A vigilant public is our first line of defense," Chief Bloom added.

If anyone has any information on these incidents, please contact the Hinsdale Police Department at 630-789-7070.

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