Bomb Squad Responds To Possible Pipe Bomb In Reading

READING (CBS) -- A possible pipe bomb had police responding to a Rachel Road home and evacuating the surrounding area, according to officials.

The Reading Police Department posted about the incident on Facebook around 7 p.m. on Wednesday saying, "Chief Mark D. Segalla reports that the Reading Police Department is on scene after a resident found what they believed to be a pipe bomb next to their home."

The Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad also responded.

It was not until hours later that residents of the approximately 20 houses evacuated were allowed home.

"It's a precarious situation, so I am glad that they are taking their time," said one bystander.

"Better safe than sorry," added another man.

Shortly after 9:30 p.m., officials, still uncertain whether the object was a bomb or not, had the bomb squad "perform a controlled detonation" on the device.

The object was then deemed not a pipe bomb and removed from the area for testing.

Drivers were asked to avoid Rachel Road, and Summer Avenue between Main Street and Pennsylvania Avenue.

Police said they are investigating whether the device contained any explosive materials or not.