Concerned Bystander Called 911 After Mistaking Coconut For Explosive Device: Report

A concerned bystander allegedly called 911, reporting that they found a coconut, which they believed someone had fashioned into an explosive device.

What happened: According to a news release by the Mukilteo Police Department, the emergency services received the unusual call on Tuesday morning.

• The police department temporarily closed Lighthouse Park as a precaution. “Out of an abundance of caution, we are asking the public to avoid the park until further notice,” they posted on Facebook. “We understand this may be inconvenient and appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to keep our community safe.”
• In a separate release, authorities revealed more details about the call. Someone dialed 911, stating they had found an improvised explosive device. They allegedly found a coconut with “a drilled hole, a fuse, and black powder inside.”
• However, after assessing the coconut with the bomb squad, the police department confirmed it was not an explosive.

Authorities Urge People To Report Suspicious Findings

Better safe than sorry: Despite the false report, the police department stressed that it’s always best to report suspicious objects. They advise calling 911 and avoiding touching or moving them.

• The park reopened at around 9:23. “We treat these situations with the caution and respect they deserve. We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding,” the news release concludes.

Another false threat: Authorities in San Antonio arrested a popular cosplayer last month after they reportedly threatened to plant a bomb at a convention hall.

• 25-year-old Kendra Noel Manning, also known as ‘Kit Noel,’ allegedly threatened to plant the bomb at San Japan. The San Japan event is an annual Anime and Gaming convention at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.
• Manning reportedly replied to an Instagram story before the event from someone who claimed they rented a booth at the convention. They allegedly posted, “**** Gamersupps. Entitled Weirdos.” Per an arrest affidavit shared by KENS5, Manning responded, “planting a bomb in their booth today.”
• An Instagram user saw the message and notified the authorities. Police reportedly made on-site law enforcement aware of the threat, and they denied Manning entry. Authorities charged the cosplayer with “terroristic threat- impact to public service/public fear – serious bodily injury/influence government.” She was booked into Bexar County Jail with a $35,000 bond, and has since been released.