Homestead Air Reserve Base personnel were evacuated Wednesday evening for what officials say was an incident involving a “damaged ordnance.” According to various media outlets, the incident involved an explosive device that was mishandled while a fighter jet was on the ground.
A release issued by the 482nd Fighter Wing states that at around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, a transportation mishap occurred involving an explosive ordnance. Homestead Air Reserve Base first responders evacuated personnel from the base due to the damaged ordnance.
Base emergency personnel coordinated with local law enforcement to clear the areas surrounding the base, with help from the Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office. People were asked to avoid Southwest 137th Avenue to Waterstone Boulevard from Southwest 288th Street to 312th Street. Residents were also advised to stay in their homes.
On Thursday morning, the 482nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal team rendered the damaged ordnance safe. No one was injured in the incident.
“I want to thank our outstanding EOD professionals and first responders for their great work last night,” Col. David Castaneda, 482nd Fighter Wing commander said. “I’d also like to thank our local law enforcement for their support in keeping our local community safe. My top priority is the success of our mission and the safety of our HARB personnel and the local community.”
The incident is under investigation. The air base said it will be providing additional information as it becomes available.
