FORT PIERCE, Fla. — A scuba diver’s unexpected find prompted the temporary closure of a beach in St. Lucie County over the weekend after he discovered a World War II-era explosive device. Tom Gramlich, an experienced diver on Florida’s Treasure Coast, made the discovery near Pepper Park, leading to immediate action from local authorities.
While diving, Gramlich noticed an unusual metal object in shallow waters. After retrieving it, he quickly realized it resembled a WWII mortar. Understanding the potential danger, he promptly contacted law enforcement to report his find. Deputies arrived on the scene and secured the area for safety.
The bomb squad was summoned to handle the situation. They transported the device to a secure location for a controlled detonation. Witnesses reported a dramatic explosion that sent sand and debris soaring into the air, highlighting the power of the decades-old ordnance.
This finding is not unprecedented in the region. According to Andy Brady of the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum, the Treasure Coast has a significant connection to WWII history. In 1943, the U.S. military organized extensive amphibious warfare training in the area, encompassing over 20,000 acres. This training often involved live explosives, which are still occasionally unearthed today.
Brady emphasized the importance of safety when encountering such devices. He advised that anyone who discovers a potentially dangerous object should retreat, refrain from touching it, and immediately notify the appropriate authorities for investigation.
The beach has since reopened following the controlled explosion, and no one was injured during the incident. Local divers and residents are reminded to remain vigilant and report any unusual finds to ensure community safety. The incident underscores the ongoing legacy of military activities in the region and serves as a reminder of past conflicts that can still have present-day implications.