VESTAVIA HILLS, Ala. (WIAT) — The Vestavia Hills Police Department has successfully cleared a package initially suspected to be an explosive device, alleviating concerns of potential danger.

Captain Michael Keller reported that at approximately 11:10 a.m. on Thursday, a resident brought a package to the police station, expressing concerns over its suspicious nature. The homeowner discovered the package at their doorstep amidst home renovations, prompting immediate action.

“We prioritize safety and will always exercise caution when dealing with suspicious packages,” stated Keller. “Our responsibility is to protect the public, and we won’t overlook any potential threat.”

In response to the situation, authorities swiftly cordoned off the front parking area of the station and secured the package in a protective container. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) was called in to conduct a thorough investigation.

By 11:53 a.m., the package was deemed safe, and the ATF has since taken measures to dispose of it appropriately.

“It was nothing active,” Keller said. “It was totally benign and non-explosive.”

While Keller did not specify what was inside the package, he said there was no malicious intent to it and that no follow-up investigation would be necessary.

“This was absolutely a homeowner who found this and thought he was doing the right thing,” he said. “Perhaps he should’ve left it there and called us.”