Enfield, Connecticut — A Connecticut neighborhood was placed on high alert after police investigating threats against construction workers discovered what appeared to be a World War II-era mortar round inside a local home, prompting a lengthy emergency response and shelter-in-place order.
Authorities say the incident began after reports surfaced that a man had allegedly threatened workers at a new Amazon construction site in Enfield.
Alleged Threats Trigger Police Investigation
According to the Enfield Police Department, officers responded after receiving information that Donald Baltronis had allegedly made threats involving violence toward workers at a new Amazon facility under construction.
Police said the suspect initially refused to cooperate with officers during the investigation.
“He was initially unwilling to speak to officers but eventually agreed to allow officers a limited entry into his home solely for the purpose of our taking possession of firearms inside the home,” police stated.
What began as a threat investigation quickly escalated once officers entered the residence.
Officers Discover Apparent WWII-Era Mortar
While inside the home, officers reportedly observed an object that immediately raised safety concerns.
“When inside, officers observed what appeared to be at least one WWII-era mortar round inside the home.”
The discovery prompted an immediate response from law enforcement agencies due to concerns that the military-era device could potentially be dangerous.
According to reports, officers also located eight firearms, along with ammunition and multiple knives inside the residence.
The findings significantly increased concerns about public safety and led authorities to take precautionary measures.
Neighborhood Ordered to Shelter in Place
Following the discovery, police quickly evacuated the home and established a safety perimeter around the property.
Residents living within approximately 500 feet of the residence were ordered to remain indoors under a shelter-in-place order while authorities assessed the potential threat.
The situation remained active for several hours as specialized units responded to the scene.
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Concerned neighbors watched from a distance while emergency personnel worked to determine whether the suspected explosive device posed any danger.
Bomb Squad Determines Device Was Harmless
The Connecticut State Police Bomb Squad was called in to examine the suspected mortar round.
After conducting an evaluation, bomb technicians determined that the military-era device was ultimately harmless.
Authorities later lifted the shelter-in-place order at approximately 12:30 a.m., allowing residents to resume normal activities.
While the situation ended without injuries, the incident caused significant disruption throughout the neighborhood and required a large law enforcement response.
Arrest Made as Questions Remain
Following the investigation, Baltronis was arrested and charged with breach of peace.
Authorities have not publicly explained exactly how the alleged threats against workers were made or what may have motivated them.
Investigators also have not released additional details regarding the origin of the mortar round or how long it had been inside the residence.
The case remains a reminder of how reports involving threats and potential explosive devices can quickly escalate into major public safety operations.
What do you think about this unusual case involving a suspected WWII-era mortar and alleged threats against workers? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
