KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Knoxville Police said officers originally said Friday that they found a small improvised explosive device (IED) on I-40 East. Later in the day, they clarified that it was an "improvised firework" device that would not have done any structural damage, or would have damaged a vehicle, if it was ignited.
KPD said that TDOT crews noticed a suspicious device while working on I-40 East near Pellissippi Parkway. Officers arrived on the scene around 9:00 a.m. and multiple lanes of I-40 East were closed as well as I-40 ramps to I-40 East.
KPD said that the bomb squad was dispatched and investigated it. The bomb squad removed the device for safe disposal and the scene was cleared.
Knoxville Police said it is unknown where the device originated or how long it had been at the location it was found.
This story is ongoing and we will update you as we learn more.