Crime & Law
Unexploded Device From US Military Exercise Washes Up on Montrose Beach, And There Are 3 More Missing Flares Out There
Beachgoers should be on the lookout for silver cylinders like the one pictured. Steer clear and immediately call 911. (Chicago Police Department / X)
The U.S. Coast Guard is warning the public about potential explosive devices that could wash up on Chicago-area beaches.
One such maritime flare was discovered Memorial Day by a lifeguard on Montrose Beach.
The devices were deployed earlier in May during a joint military exercise conducted off the shore of Milwaukee by the Coast Guard and U.S. Air Force. Four of what the Coast Guard describes as “phosphorus pyrotechnics” failed to activate when they hit the water and are considered “armed.”
With one of the four now accounted four, that leaves three still missing. Anyone who comes across one of the silver cylinders should steer clear and immediately call 911. If activated, the devices blow smoke and flames, and can reach temperatures of 2,900 degrees.
Do not touch, move or attempt to handle one of the devices if you come across it, the Chicago Police Department said.
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]
