Fort Totten Park Closed Following Discovery of WWI-Era Munitions, More Potentially Hidden

Recovered munitions from unauthorized work; further investigation by the National Park Service and U.S. Army underway amidst fears of additional hidden munitions, keeping the park off-limits for public safety.

- The Fort Totten Park in Washington, D.C. has been closed due to the discovery of World War I-era munitions during unauthorized work by an adjacent property owner. The park will remain closed for further investigation by the National Park Service and U.S. Army amid fears of more hidden munitions.
- The unearthed munitions comprise of a 75-mm projectile and a 19-inch-long Livens projector, the latter being a mortar-like weapon capable of launching gas bombs. Preliminary tests found that the 75-mm projectile contained soil and the Livens projector held an unknown liquid.
- Upon additional testing, officials revealed that the unknown liquid in the Livens projector was mostly water and 0.0006% acetophenone, a non-hazardous commercial chemical used in industries such as perfume, food flavoring, and plastic solvents.
- This closure follows a previous incident in 2020 in the same park where an empty WWI-era metal canister was discovered. Local authorities have cited these findings as 'concerning and alarming,' urging for in-depth investigations.
- The National Park Service and U.S. Army are seeking funds for a 'comprehensive investigation' into Fort Totten Park. In the meantime, the public is advised to stay away from the area and report any suspicious items by calling 911.