A day at the beach took an unexpected turn Monday when authorities temporarily shut down Corson's Inlet State Park after discovering a rocket device on the sand.
The device—identified as a rocket-assisted supply line launcher—was spotted around 12:30 p.m. Monday, prompting an immediate response from state officials, according to New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection spokesman Vincent Grassi.
New Jersey State Park Police evacuated the beach as a precautionary measure while they waited for specialized help to arrive. The New Jersey State Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit was called to the scene to assess and remove the device, which was later destroyed, Grassi told Patch.
While the discovery may have alarmed beachgoers, the device itself is actually a standard piece of maritime equipment. Ships use rocket-assisted supply line launchers to create connections between vessels at sea or to establish links between a ship and the shore. The tool works by firing a small pyrotechnic rocket that carries a lightweight messenger line to its destination.
The beach closure lasted approximately four and a half hours. Park officials gave the all-clear around 5 p.m., allowing visitors to return to the shoreline for the remainder of the evening.
The incident serves as a reminder that unusual items occasionally wash ashore along our coastline. Authorities encourage anyone who discovers suspicious or unfamiliar objects on the beach to keep their distance and immediately notify park police or local law enforcement rather than attempting to handle the items themselves.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
