Explosive found near Capitol State Forest in Thurston County, WSP says
An explosive device found near Capitol State Forest Wednesday was a pipe bomb, the Washington State Patrol confirmed Thursday.
The investigation began about 3 p.m. Wednesday near Capitol State Forest after a Thurston County Public Works crew, which was cleaning up trash in the area, found the device wrapped in multiple layers of duct tape, according to a State Patrol news release.
The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office responded and evacuated nearby residents and blocked off Waddell Creek Road in the 8800 block.
The State Patrol bomb squad also was called to the scene.
Technicians confirmed it was an active pipe bomb that measured 11-inches by 2-inches. Those technicians rendered the device safe and properly disposed of it, according to the State Patrol.
There is no additional investigation at this time, State Patrol officials said.
This story was originally published April 29, 2026 at 5:41 PM.
