On 7/31/2026 at approximately 3:35 PM Monmouth Dispatch was advised of the finding of a possible homemade explosive device at a Kirkwood residence. The device was located by a person removing personal property from the residence. The item had been removed from the residence and placed outside before authorities were alerted. The Warren County Animal Control Officer, at the location on another matter, called the incident in.
Warren County Deputies, along with Illinois State Police, the Central Warren Fire Dept and Illinois Secretary of State Police responded to the scene. The area was blocked off, and as a precaution residences located near the house where the device originated were asked to evacuate. While the item did not appear to be of substantial size, the Peoria Bomb Squad was requested to respond to render the scene safe. After the device was rendered safe, a search warrant executed at the residence resulted in the finding of some fireworks, but no other homemade explosives.
The scene was released at about 8:10 PM
The occupant of the residence was away at the time of discovery and will be brought in for questioning.
There is no ongoing danger to the public. Additional information will be provided after further investigation by the Warren County Sheriff’s Office.
***Courtesy of the Warren County Sheriff’s Office***
