Bomb squad removed hazardous materials from Iowa City apartment

IOWA CITY – A Johnson County bomb squad disposed of a large quantity of flares, magnesium and torpedoes – an explosive signaling device used by the railroad industry – from an Iowa City apartment early this morning.

Iowa City police were executing a search warrant around 2 a.m. at 1015 W. Benton St., No. 52 in reference to a domestic assault investigation when they discovered the hazardous materials and devices.

All items were safely removed from the apartment. Residents in the apartment complex were informed of the situation and given the option to evacuate.

Officer did arrested Jesse D. Burkhart, 26, and charged him with domestic assault for an incident that occurred on May 25. The incident with the hazardous materials remains under investigation.