Man Finds WWII Grenade in Midtown Mobile Attic

Rental home cleanup uncovers decades-old explosive device

Apr. 16, 2026 at 3:03am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a WWII-era grenade, its metallic surface and intricate details sharply illuminated against a pitch-black background, conveying a sense of danger and the need for careful investigation.The discovery of a live WWII grenade in a residential attic exposes the potential dangers of undiscovered military ordnance from past conflicts.Mobile Today

A man cleaning out a rental home in Midtown Mobile, Alabama discovered a WWII-era grenade sitting in the attic, where it had been for over 50 years. Bill Appling, who is familiar with the local antique scene, was shocked to come across the deadly explosive while clearing out the home.

Why it matters

The discovery of a live grenade from World War II in a residential attic raises serious concerns about public safety and the potential risks of undiscovered ordnance in older homes. It also highlights the importance of proper disposal of historic military items that can still pose a threat.

The details

Appling was cleaning out a rental home off Florida Street in Midtown Mobile when he came across the grenade sitting in the 100-degree attic. The device, which had been there for over 50 years, was still live and posed a significant danger. Appling, who is knowledgeable about antiques in the area, immediately contacted the authorities to properly dispose of the explosive.

  • Appling discovered the grenade while cleaning out a rental home in Midtown Mobile on April 15, 2026.

The players

Bill Appling

A man familiar with the antique scene in Mobile who discovered the WWII grenade while cleaning out a rental home.

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What’s next

The Mobile Police Department and bomb squad responded to the scene and safely removed the live grenade for proper disposal.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can lurk in older homes, even decades after a conflict has ended. It highlights the importance of caution and vigilance when cleaning out unfamiliar properties, as well as the need for proper procedures to safely handle and dispose of any discovered military ordnance.