Hinesville City Hall was evacuated for nearly 20 minutes shortly before 2:30 p.m. today. Officials were notified of possible explosive devices near the building and advised everyone to evacuate.

According to Sgt. Mike Gosseck, at 2 p.m. a woman came into the Hinesville Police Department, asking to dispose ammunition. She revealed 28 rounds of suspected military ordnance, which prompted Sgt. Gosseck to contact the Fort Stewart Department of Defense chief. An explosive ordnance disposal unit was contacted and informed the DOD chief that the ordinance could be unstable. A perimeter was set up around the city hall and everyone evacuated as a safety precaution until the DOD chief removed the rounds and took the ordinance to EOD command.

At 2:52 p.m., clearance was given for everyone to return to the building.

“I am glad that everyone is safe and pleased by the response of the staff. Everyone handled their roles efficiently and effectively to protect the lives and ensure the safety of people in the area.” Mayor James Thomas said.

Earlier story

Hinesville Police Department and City Hall have been evacuated after someone brought in a piece of ordnance that has not been identified into the police station, according to HPD Sgt. Mike Gosseck.

Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard around the department has been blocked and a perimeter set up. An explosive ordnance disposal unit from Fort Stewart is reported to have been called in to check the suspected explosive.

Gosseck said the person who brought in the ordnance apparently found it so wanted to bring it to authorities. It happened shortly after 2 p.m.