Device Explodes Inside FedEx Building Near Austin

Two days after a trip wire bomb in Austin, Texas, injured two people another explosive device went off inside a FedEx facility 73 miles south of the city. One person suffered minor injuries when the device, which was hidden inside a medium-sized packaged, detonated while on a conveyer belt. 

Police said the package was being shipped to Austin and was filled with nails and other metal shrapnel. Authorities said they believe the bombing was related to the previous explosions in Austin but cautioned they are still in the early stages of their investigation. 

The female employee who was near the bomb went it went off was being treated for a possible concussion. 

FedEx released a statement about the explosion:

We can confirm that a single package exploded while in a FedEx Ground sortation facility early this morning. One team member is being treated for minor injuries. We are working closely with law enforcement in their investigation. We are not providing any additional specific information about this package at this time.

Another suspicious package was identified at a different FedEx facility. Authorities responded to the facility, but it is unclear if the package is connected with the other bombings. 

Police believe they are making progress in the case. They are investigating a "confirmed link" between the package bombs and a mail delivery office in Sunset Valley. 

"It appears that the source of the suspect packages was a private package delivery office in Sunset Valley," police said in that statement that was also sent to residents. The department said officers are assisting with traffic control in the area, but at this time there are "no known public safety threats to Sunset Valley residents, visitors or shoppers."

Austin Police Chief Brian Manley issued a statement reminding the community to be vigilant and report "any suspicious device whether it be a package, a bag, a backpack or anything that looks out of place" to police.

The Austin Police Department is aware of the incident that has occurred in Schertz, Texas and is working closely on the investigation with our federal partners, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. I want to continue to remind our community to pay close attention to any suspicious device whether it be a package, a bag, a backpack or anything that looks out of place, do not approach it. Call 9-1-1 immediately. Also remember do not move, touch or open unexpected/suspicious packages.


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