Glasgow Park remains closed Wednesday afternoon as New Castle County Police investigate information a person placed an explosive device in the parkland, which is a popular destination for many.
The more than 250-acre park was closed about 10:35 p.m. Tuesday — shortly after county police received information from Maryland State Police about the threat.
During a separate investigation, Maryland Troopers received information a person had placed an explosive device somewhere in the park, said Cpl. Michael McNasby, a police spokesman.
“Officers immediately responded to the area, closed the park and established a perimeter,” McNasby said. “Officers remain on scene conducting a thorough search of the entire park and surrounding area. Glasgow Park remains closed to the public.”
County police vehicles, along with Delaware Department of Transportation trucks, are blocking all entrances to the park. A large gathering of police could be seen in the parking lot nearest Routes 40 and 896. These are lots not far from the Hermitage structure which was a thriving agricultural complex and dairy farm until the mid-1960’s.
The county police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team and its K9 unit are assisting with conducting a grid search of the entire park, which offers bike and wooded hiking trails, as well as skate and dog parks.
Additional K9 teams from Delaware State Police, Wilmington, the University of Delaware and the Delaware River and Bay Authority are assisting.
“The division understands Glasgow Park is a popular destination for county residents and we appreciate their patience as we work diligently to ensure their safety,” McNasby said. “The park will reopen as soon as it is deemed completely safe.”
New Castle County Detectives are also collaborating with the Maryland State Police to fully investigate this serious incident.
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Police stop sex assault at Glasgow Park
This is at least the second time in a week’s period that county police have conducted an investigation inside the park.
Last week, officers patrolling the park after hours stopped a 48-year-old Newark man’s plans to sexually abuse a 14-year-old girl. The man has been charged with the sexual solicitation of a child.
More:How county police prevented sexual abuse in Glasgow Park after dark: court documents
This is a developing story. Check back with delawareonline.com for more information.
Contact Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299 or eparra@delawareonline.com.
