Update: Residents were allowed to return to their homes about 3 a.m. Tuesday. Patrick Air Force Base’s explosive ordnance disposal team removed the munition from the area, fire rescue crews said.
Earlier story:
VERO BEACH — Several homes were evacuated as a precaution late Monday after a World War II-era military ordnance was found on the beach, fire rescue crews said.
Indian River County Fire Rescue crews responded to reports of an old munition found about 5:30 p.m. on the beach near Ocean Ridge Circle, Battalion Chief Kyle Kofke said. Fire crews contacted Patrick Air Force Base’s explosive ordnance disposal team to remove the munition.
It was unclear if the ordnance was live.
Indian River County sheriffs deputies evacuated 20 people from nearby homes, Kofke said.
The explosive ordnance disposal team was still at the scene by 11 p.m., Kofke said. Fire crews are standing by to assist as needed, officials said.
No further details were immediately available.
