Suspicious Package Left on Bench in Bethlehem Draws Bethlehem Bomb Squad

A backpack left on a bench closed a block on Main Street in Bethlehem on Wednesday night, authorities said.

Authorities responded to a report of a suspicious package around 6:30 p.m. outside 535 Main St., according to The Express-Times. Bethlehem Police and the Bethlehem Fire Department bomb squad responded to the report of the backpack. The bomb squad X-rayed the backpack, but found nothing posing a threat, The Express-Times reported.

A perimeter was established, closing Main Street, between West Market and West Broad street, The Express-Times said. People within the 300-foot perimeter were asked to seek shelter or stay indoors, authorities said.

After investigating the backpack and finding nothing dangerous, the street was re-opened shortly before 8:30 p.m.

According to The Express-Times, police Lt. Jeffrey Herzog said people should be mindful when they see a package left alone and take proper precautions.

For more information on this story, visit The Express-Times.