The Aberdeen flash-bang voting incident is under active investigation after police say a civilian-style device was thrown near an early voting location on Wednesday afternoon.
According to the Aberdeen Police Department, officers responded on February 18 around 2:30 p.m. to reports of a loud explosion near the early voting site at Aberdeen Lake Park. Witnesses initially believed a transformer had blown before officers located what was identified as a civilian-style flash-bang device.
Device Found Near Aberdeen Lake Park Voting Site
Authorities say the Aberdeen flash-bang voting incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. near the intersection of U.S. 1 and Lake Shore Drive. The early voting location inside the Aberdeen Lake Park building sits roughly 150 yards from where the device was discovered.
Capt. Shannon Blackburn reported that officers interviewed approximately 30 witnesses. Most indicated the device appeared to have been thrown from a moving vehicle traveling southbound on U.S. 1.
At this time, investigators do not have a suspect or vehicle description.
No Injuries or Property Damage Reported
Police confirmed the Aberdeen flash-bang voting incident resulted in no injuries and no reported property damage. However, officers increased patrols in the area following the event and maintained a visible presence at the early voting site as a precaution.
Authorities say the situation appears isolated, and no additional threats have been reported.
Evidence Headed to State Crime Lab
Investigators plan to submit evidence connected to the Aberdeen flash-bang voting incident to the North Carolina State Crime Lab for further analysis. The investigation remains ongoing.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact Capt. Shannon Blackburn at 910-944-4566. Tips may also be submitted via Facebook Messenger or anonymously by calling 910-944-4561.
A $500 reward is being offered for verifiable information that leads to an arrest.
For continuing coverage across Aberdeen, Southern Pines, Pinehurst, and the Sandhills, stay connected with Star 102.5 and the Sandhills News team.
