ATF Assists in Clearing Suspected Pipe Bombs from Maryland Park

Multiple explosive devices found in remote area of Fort Washington Park

Mar. 24, 2026 at 9:57pm

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The Baltimore ATF Division helped the U.S. Park Police and Prince George's County Fire Department clear multiple suspected pipe bombs from Fort Washington Park in Maryland on Sunday. A total of nine devices were found in a remote area of the park, and the investigation is ongoing.

Why it matters

The discovery of suspected explosive devices in a public park raises concerns about public safety and the potential threat of domestic terrorism. The ATF's involvement indicates the seriousness of the situation and the need to thoroughly investigate the origin and nature of the devices.

The details

According to officials, a report of suspected explosive devices came in around 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Officers located multiple suspected devices and bomb squads were notified. The search was postponed on Sunday due to low visibility, and work restarted on Monday to clear the park. All evidence found will be taken to the ATF National Lab for further analysis.

  • The initial report of suspected explosive devices came in around 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 24, 2026.
  • The search was postponed on Sunday due to low visibility, and work restarted on Monday, March 25, 2026 to clear the park.
  • Fort Washington Park will remain closed for the investigation and is expected to reopen on Wednesday, March 27, 2026.

The players

Baltimore ATF Division

The Baltimore field division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, which assisted in the investigation and clearing of the suspected pipe bombs.

U.S. Park Police

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting national parks, who were involved in the investigation and clearing of the suspected pipe bombs.

Prince George's County Fire Department

The fire department serving Prince George's County, Maryland, who assisted in the investigation and clearing of the suspected pipe bombs.

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What’s next

The investigation into the origin and nature of the suspected pipe bombs is ongoing, and all evidence found will be taken to the ATF National Lab for further analysis.

The takeaway

The discovery of suspected explosive devices in a public park is a serious matter that requires a thorough investigation by law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety and identify any potential threats. The involvement of the ATF and other agencies highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for vigilance in the community.