*CANOGA PARK, CA* -- A routine death investigation in Canoga Park turned into a public safety emergency Tuesday when officers discovered a grenade and ammunition inside a residence, prompting immediate evacuations and street closures.
Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to a home near Variel Avenue and Gault Street at approximately 10:41 a.m. on Tuesday to investigate a death, according to the LAPD.
During a search of the residence, police found a grenade along with ammunition. The discovery led authorities to issue evacuation orders for nearby residents and close surrounding streets to ensure public safety while the investigation continued.
Authorities have not released additional details about the person who died or the circumstances surrounding the death. The investigation remains ongoing.
The incident underscores the risks that can arise during warrant service and death investigations in residential neighborhoods, where hazardous materials may be present without warning to residents or first responders.
Neighbors in the affected area were asked to remain away from their homes during the evacuation. No further timeline for the closure of streets or the conclusion of the investigation was provided by the department.