HOLLADAY, Utah – Residents in a neighborhood in Holladay, Utah were forced to evacuate as fire authorities detonated a large cache of “ancient dynamite” found in a home. The emergency evacuation was issued by the Unified Fire Authority (UFA) as crews prepared for the controlled explosion in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
The discovery of the ancient dynamite prompted an initial evacuation in the area, with authorities describing the amount found as significant. To ensure safety, a second emergency alert was issued by UFA, extending the evacuation borders even further. The evacuation order included specific areas in Holladay with a deadline for residents to leave the area as part of the explosion mitigation efforts.
In response to the evacuation, the Red Cross of Utah set up an evacuation center at Oakwood Elementary School to assist displaced residents, providing food and water to those affected by the incident. Thankfully, the explosives were successfully detonated around 4 a.m., ensuring the safety of the neighborhood and surrounding houses.
Captain Tony Barker of UFA revealed that the dynamite had been in the possession of the family for generations, highlighting the homeowner’s history as a collector of explosives. Despite reassurances that neighboring houses were unlikely to sustain damage, Barker noted that the residence where the dynamite was housed would be uninhabitable after the explosion. The controlled detonation marked the end of a tense situation for residents and authorities.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials, especially when dealing with potentially volatile substances. The coordinated efforts of fire authorities, law enforcement, and organizations like the Red Cross highlight the community’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents in times of crisis. As the neighborhood begins the process of recovery and assessment post-explosion, the focus remains on supporting those affected and preventing similar incidents in the future.