Live bazooka round causes bomb scare in Columbus

A live bazooka round caused a bomb scare and blocked-off streets in downtown Columbus this afternoon.

A man in Meriweather County first discovered the explosive round on his farm. He, in turn, gave it to his daughter in Phenix City, according to local Department of Homeland Security chief Randy Roberts.

She then brought it to show friends at the Springer Opera House in Columbus.

The group showed the shell to employees at the Fire Department across the street. They, in turn, alerted the authorities, according to Sheriff's Department Major Joe McCrea.

Police, Sheriff's Department and DHS officials quickly locked down the area, and closed off nearby streets, fearing the device might detonate.

Bomb squad experts from nearby Ft. Benning were alerted. A team surrounded the device with sandbags, and safely disposed of the round.