Live Explosive Devices Found During Property Cleanup in Cherokee County

CHEROKEE COUNTY, N.C. — Deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence on Feb. 26, 2026, after receiving information that a Culberson family had discovered two explosive devices while cleaning out property belonging to a deceased relative.

Deputies and a narcotics agent responded to the scene and identified the devices as a smoke grenade and an MK2 grenade. Both devices appeared to be live but were determined to be in stable condition.

The area was secured, and agents with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Bomb Squad were called to the scene. The bomb squad removed the devices, rendered them safe, and disposed of them.

No additional devices were found during the investigation. No charges are expected at this time.

Sheriff Wood expressed appreciation for the quick actions of sheriff’s office personnel and the SBI, citing their prompt response and assistance in maintaining public safety.