Bomb Squad Responds to Suspicious Device Near Helena High

Overview

• Helena Police received a report around 10 a.m. of a suspicious device on private property near Dakota and Davis Street, about a block from Helena High.
• Officers treated the item as a suspected improvised explosive device and called in the county bomb squad, the ATF, and the FBI.
• Authorities searched the surrounding area, nearby neighborhoods, and routes associated with the planned protest and found no additional suspicious items.
• Superintendent Rex Weltz said a jug of gasoline and fireworks were discovered across the street from Helena High at the planned protest location, but off campus.
• Police advised canceling student walkouts as a precaution; schools kept students indoors without formal lockdowns, East Helena schools conducted sweeps, and the investigation continues.