Deschutes County Sheriff’s deputies and the Oregon State Police bomb squad were called to an area near Knott Landfill this morning in response to the discovery of possible pipe bombs, authorities reported.

Knott Landfill in SE Bend

Deputies responded to the area west of the landfill’s administrative parking lot at 61000 SE 27th Street about 10:34 a.m., said Sgt. Gary Cima, and quickly established a safety perimeter around the four devices pending arrival of the Oregon State Police (OSP) bomb squad.

Upon closer examination, the items were found to be three military-issue illumination devices, and one military-issue smoke canister, the sergeant said.

Cima cautioned the public against moving or transporting potentially explosive or suspicious devices.  “If a bomb or other suspicious device is encountered, get away from it and immediately call law enforcement authorities. Do not attempt to move or relocate it,” he warned.