Suspicious Device Found in Lafayette Neighborhood Determined to Be Fake, All-Clear Given

LAFAYETTE, La. – Traffic on Congress St. near a section of the Saint Streets neighborhood was impacted earlier today after police responded to a suspicious device that was discovered in a backyard on Ridgewood Drive.

UPDATE:

Authorities have confirmed that the suspicious device found in the 200 block of Ridgewood Drive was a non-explosive fake. The Louisiana State Police Bomb Detection Unit determined there was no credible threat, and an all-clear has been issued.

Residents who were evacuated as a precaution may now return home. While the immediate danger has passed, Lafayette Police say the investigation remains ongoing.

ORIGINAL STORY:

According to the Lafayette Police Department, workers in the 200 block of Ridgewood Drive came across the device around 2:48 p.m. and immediately contacted authorities. Police arrived at the scene and, after an initial assessment, called in the Lafayette Fire Department and Hazmat teams.

As a precaution, homes immediately surrounding the residence, as well as those on nearby St. Thomas and Brookside, have been evacuated. The Louisiana State Police Bomb Detection Unit has also been called in and is actively investigating the situation.

While Congress Street remains open to traffic at this time, authorities are urging residents and motorists to avoid the immediate area until the situation is resolved.

This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.