In a tense moment on Tuesday afternoon, a suspicious device discovered near Utah State University’s Old Main building in Logan, Utah, prompted a swift response from law enforcement and a bomb squad.

On Tuesday, a suspicious object found near Old Main at Utah State University (USU) was detonated by a bomb squad as a precaution before a high-profile Turning Point USA (TPUSA) event, though it was later determined to be non-explosive, with no injuries reported and heightened security measures enforced for the evening’s gathering, as Fox News reports.

The incident began when a university employee noticed an individual placing an object under a tree near Old Main, a prominent campus building. According to Ellis Bruch, Executive Director of Public Safety at USU, the employee found the act unusual and reported it as suspicious. This prompted an immediate response from university and local law enforcement.

Suspicious object sparks campus alert

Upon arrival, authorities deployed a K-9 unit to inspect the object. Bruch noted that the dog showed a slight reaction to the device, raising enough concern to call in a specialized bomb squad for further investigation.

The bomb squad decided to err on the side of caution, choosing to detonate the object despite initial assessments. A video obtained by Fox News captured someone shouting “fire in the hole” just before a loud blast echoed across the area. Fortunately, no one was harmed during the controlled detonation.

After the detonation, the device was confirmed to be nonexplosive, alleviating fears of a serious threat. USU released a statement assuring the community that Old Main had been thoroughly checked and deemed safe. The statement also confirmed that all scheduled activities could proceed as planned.

Bomb squad initiates controlled blast

“A suspicious device was found near the exterior of Old Main,” the university’s statement read. “University and local law enforcement were dispatched to the scene.”

The statement continued, “A device was located and deemed to be a non-explosive device. Out of an abundance of caution, the bomb squad detonated the suspicious device.”

“Old Main building is now clear and safe,” the statement concluded. “All scheduled events may resume as normal.”

TPUSA event proceeds

The timing of the incident added to campus tension, as it occurred just hours before a significant TPUSA event, the first in Utah since the tragic assassination of TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10 at Utah Valley University. Kirk’s suspected killer, Tyler Robinson, faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder and obstruction of justice, in connection with that earlier incident. The USU event was set to feature prominent figures such as Alex Clark, Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT), Gov. Spencer Cox, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ), and former Congressman Jason Chaffetz.

Given the recent history and the day’s earlier scare, USU implemented stringent security measures for the TPUSA gathering. The university modeled its protocols after those used for major athletic events, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. “Given the heightened concerns, USU’s department of public safety is continuing to collaborate with these partners to ensure appropriate safety measures and protocols are in place,” the university affirmed.

Among the security steps, all attendees were required to pass through magnetometer screenings before entering the venue. Firearm carriers had to adhere to Utah campus laws and possess a valid conceal-carry permit to bring weapons inside.

Strict protocols guard gathering

Additional restrictions banned backpacks and large bags exceeding 6.5 by 4.5 inches from the event space. Small purses were permitted but subject to thorough searches by security personnel. Outside signs were also prohibited to maintain order.

Once inside, attendees were not allowed to re-enter if they left the venue, ensuring controlled access throughout the evening. These measures underscored USU’s commitment to safety amid lingering unease following the day’s suspicious device incident and the broader context of recent violence tied to TPUSA events in the state.

The collaborative efforts of USU’s Department of Public Safety and its partners provided a sense of reassurance as the event unfolded without further issues. While the suspicious object ultimately posed no danger, the incident served as a stark reminder of the heightened vigilance required in today’s climate. As the university and community move forward, the focus remains on balancing open dialogue with robust safety precautions for all campus activities.