Lompoc Suspicious Device Deemed Safe, Determined to be Softball Pitching Training Device

LATEST UPDATE

Lompoc city streets were reopened and residents were allowed to return to their homes after investigators determined a suspicious device left at someone’s doorstep was actually a training apparatus used to assist fast pitch softball pitchers develop their pitching skills.

The item was mistakenly left at the wrong address by a local softball coach.

It began when a resident returned home and saw the device, which resembled a possible pipe bomb, at their doorstep, police say.

Eventually, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad was called in to assist with the investigation. A robot was deployed to inspect the device.

Several surrounding residents were evacuated and others were asked to shelter in place. A reverse 911 was sent out to residents.

City streets were closed at Oak and M Street, Oak and O Street, and North and O Street during the incident as a safety precaution.

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ORIGINAL STORY

Lompoc police investigated a suspicious device found in the 900 block of North Oleander Monday night.

City streets were temporarily closed at Oak and M Street, Oak and O Street, and North and O Street.

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department responded with a robot and there were several evacuations in the nearby area, according to reports.

Residents in the area were asked to shelter in place.

Check back for continued updates on this developing story.