Blount County, TN – A routine traffic stop on Alcoa Highway near the I-140 interchange led to two arrests Tuesday evening after Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers discovered firearms and what appeared to be an explosive device inside a vehicle.
According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the stop occurred shortly before 5 p.m. when a trooper assigned to the Knoxville District pulled over a vehicle for a traffic violation. During the stop, the trooper allegedly spotted an item resembling an explosive and immediately called for assistance.
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Alcoa Police Department all responded to the scene. After examination, technicians determined the device was a hoax but collected it for further testing.
Troopers also located three firearms inside the vehicle. The driver, identified as a convicted felon, was arrested and faces state charges related to possession of the weapons and the hoax device. A female passenger was also arrested in connection with the hoax device, authorities said.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol confirmed the investigation remains ongoing. Officials thanked local and federal agencies for their rapid response in securing the area and ensuring public safety.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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