News Summary
A suspicious incendiary device was discovered near the Folk Art Center along the Blue Ridge Parkway, prompting an immediate evacuation and investigation. Law enforcement, including the FBI and local bomb squad, responded swiftly to ensure public safety. The device was safely removed, with no known threats to the public. Investigations are ongoing as authorities seek information about the item’s origins. Community members are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Asheville, North Carolina – A suspicious incendiary device was discovered near the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway on June 1, prompting an immediate evacuation of the area and an extensive investigation by law enforcement agencies. The device was located around 11:45 a.m. in a dirt pull-off near the popular tourist center.
In response to the discovery, officials ordered the evacuation of the Folk Art Center and temporarily closed a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway as a precautionary measure. A coordinated response involved multiple agencies, including the National Park Service, the Asheville Police Department’s Bomb Squad, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Fire and emergency medical personnel from Asheville and Riceville were also present at the scene to assist with the situation.
The National Park Service stated that the suspicious item was successfully removed without incident, and confirmed that there are currently no known threats to the public. The Investigative Services Branch of the National Park Service is leading the ongoing investigation to determine the origin and purpose of the device.
Authorities described the hazardous item as an “improvised incendiary device,” which raised concerns given its nature. Despite the alarming discovery, there has been no mention of suspects or arrests related to the incident at this time.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, which connects Shenandoah National Park with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a well-known scenic route frequented by both tourists and locals alike. The Folk Art Center, located along this route, showcases traditional and contemporary crafts of the Southern Appalachians, drawing numerous visitors each year.
In light of these events, the National Park Service is encouraging anyone with information regarding the incident to reach out. Individuals can contact the Investigative Services Branch at 888-653-0009 or submit information online at go.nps.gov/SubmitATip. Additionally, inquiries can be sent via email to [email protected].
This incident has sparked significant concern within the community as law enforcement continues their thorough investigation to ensure public safety. The response and cooperation between multiple agencies reflect the seriousness with which authorities are treating the discovery of the incendiary device.
Community members are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities in and around the Blue Ridge Parkway area. The quick action taken by law enforcement agencies demonstrates their commitment to maintaining safety in public spaces, particularly in well-visited areas such as the Folk Art Center.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Folk Art Center Evacuated
- Fox Carolina: Improvised Incendiary Device Causes Closure
- Fox News: Suspicious Incendiary Device Found
- Spectrum Local News: Suspicious Item Investigated
- Wikipedia: Blue Ridge Parkway
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
