Underwater IED Found at Ala. Reservoir Dam Safely Detonated
What to know
- Divers conducting routine repairs at a Mobile reservoir dam discovered a hidden grenade-type improvised explosive device underwater.
- Authorities launched a multi-agency response, and a specialized maritime bomb team safely retrieved and detonated the device without incident.
- Officials called the situation unprecedented but said the early discovery prevented potential harm to the water supply, and security at the reservoir will be increased.
A routine dive repair at a federally recognized Mobile dam led to an unexpected discovery as divers found a hidden explosive device Tuesday, according to the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System.
After the grenade type-IED was located at the Converse Reservoir dam, MAWSS contacted the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office which facilitated a multi-agency response to retrieve and detonate the explosive.
The Gulf Coast Regional Maritime Response and Render-Safe Team performed a successful retrieval and detonation of the IED.
“Our top priority is keeping your drinking water safe,” Bud McCrory, MAWSS director, said.
“This is an unprecedented threat, and we are fortunate that this device was discovered before it could cause serious damage to our water supply or harm to individuals. We are grateful for the professionalism and competency of our law enforcement partners – as well as the quick thinking of our contractors and divers – in identifying this device and safely destroying it.”
Other agencies involved in the operation included the FBI Bomb Squad, ALEA Bomb Squad, Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, Mobile Police Department Explosive Ordinance Detail, and the Daphne Search and Rescue Team.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security was notified of the incident, MAWSS said.
The agency said it will continue to with law enforcement agencies to increase security at the reservoir.
________________
©2026 Advance Local Media LLC.
Visit al.com.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.