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On January 10, 2024 at 6:45 pm, an Investigator with Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office observed a male slumped over in a vehicle in the parking lot of Food Lion on John Small Avenue in Washington NC.
While checking on the welfare of the occupant, the Investigator observed drug paraphernalia in plain view.  Upon making contact with the subject, the Investigator located a weapon, crystal methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
While conducting a subsequent probable cause search of the vehicle, deputies located what appeared to be possible explosives inside the vehicle.
Deputies immediately secured the parking lot and requested assistance from Washington Police, Washington Fire/EMS and Beaufort County Emergency Services.  All local businesses at Washington Corner closed at the recommendation of law enforcement.
Cherry Point DOD is responding to the scene to further investigate the items.  Further information will be released at a later time.