Bomb squad called to remove 'suspicious item' near Tonasket High School, safety measures taken

UPDATE: September 18, 2025 at 5:35 p.m.

The Spokane Bomb Squad confirmed that the suspicious item found near Tonasket High School was an improvised explosive device (IED) containing black powder.

Officials safely conducted a controlled detonation of the IED.

The Okanogan County Sheriff's Office (OCSO) urged anyone who observed the device on Thursday morning or witnessed the person handling the device to contact the OCSO.

TONASKET, Wash. – Deputies are investigating a “suspicious item” on a walking path near Tonasket High School, according to the Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office.

The office said that the school was contacted and steps were taken to keep students and staff safe.

The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office bomb squad was called to the scene to help safely remove the item.

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