A potentially dangerous discovery in a Sacramento County yard prompted an evacuation yesterday as authorities worked to safely remove a live mortar.

According to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, North Patrol deputies responded to a call after a homeowner’s son uncovered an object while digging in the yard that was suspected to be unexploded ordnance.

Nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution while the Sheriff’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team assessed the situation.

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Following confirmation of the item’s legitimacy, the U.S. Air Force also responded. The object was determined to be a live 81mm mortar, which was safely removed and destroyed without incident.

No injuries were reported.

The Sheriff’s Office thanked the public for their cooperation during the evacuation and reminded residents to avoid handling any suspicious items.