DeKalb County, October 16, 2025
News Summary
DeKalb County police investigated a suspicious package near the Home Center Outlet. The bomb squad confirmed the package was safe, allowing normal operations to resume. This incident coincided with another alert at the DeKalb County Courthouse involving a non-hazardous envelope. Authorities are continuing their investigation into both situations.
DeKalb County Police Investigate Suspicious Package Near Home Improvement Store, All-Clear Given
DeKalb County police responded to a report of a suspicious package Thursday afternoon near the Home Center Outlet located at 4363 Northeast Expressway. The incident prompted a swift investigation by the DeKalb County bomb squad, which employed a robotic device to analyze the suspicious item. At approximately 2 p.m., authorities confirmed that the item was safe and posed no threat, allowing operations in the area to return to normal.
The bomb squad’s investigation caused noticeable disruptions, including the temporary closure of the entrance ramp to Interstate 85 to Northcrest Road. Law enforcement officials urged both drivers and pedestrians to avoid the vicinity while the area was secured. A heavy police presence remained outside the Home Center Outlet throughout the investigation, ensuring that public safety was prioritized.
This incident unfolded on the same day that another security alert occurred in DeKalb County, involving a non-hazardous materials envelope at the DeKalb County Courthouse in downtown Decatur. The courthouse was evacuated and closed for several hours while investigations were conducted. Ultimately, the materials in the envelope were determined to be non-threatening, leading to the courthouse’s safe reopening.
As the incidents are part of a developing story, further updates are anticipated regarding both situations. The origin of the suspicious envelope related to the courthouse incident remains unknown, and authorities have yet to establish whether any individual will be charged in connection with it.
Key Details
- Suspicious package investigated by police at Home Center Outlet in DeKalb County.
- Robotic device used by bomb squad during investigation.
- 2 p.m. all-clear provided by law enforcement, package deemed safe.
- Temporary closure of nearby entrance ramp to I-85.
- Related situation involved a non-hazardous envelop at Courthouse earlier in the day.
Background context
Suspicious packages have raised concerns for public safety, and law enforcement agencies often take swift action in such cases to prevent potential threats. In this instance, the prompt response from DeKalb County police and the bomb squad ensured the safety of residents and passersby in the area surrounding the Home Center Outlet.
Public vigilance and the actions of local authorities highlight the ongoing efforts to maintain safety in communities across the country. As agencies investigate claims of suspicious items, they rely on communication with the public to keep everyone informed of any developments or potential risks.
FAQ
What was investigated by DeKalb County police on Thursday?
DeKalb County police responded to a report of a suspicious package near the Home Center Outlet located at 4363 Northeast Expressway.
What did the investigation on the suspicious package involve?
The DeKalb County bomb squad utilized a robotic device during their investigation into the suspicious item.
When was the all-clear given for the suspicious package?
Authorities confirmed that the suspicious item was safe and posed no threat at approximately 2 p.m.
What other incident occurred in DeKalb County that same day?
Earlier that day, a non-hazardous materials envelope caused an evacuation at the DeKalb County Courthouse, which was closed for several hours.
Key Features of the Incidents
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Incident | Home Center Outlet, 4363 Northeast Expressway |
| Time of Response | Thursday afternoon, approximately 2 p.m. |
| Response Team | DeKalb County police, bomb squad |
| Outcome of Investigation | Suspicious package deemed safe |
| Related Incident | Non-hazardous materials envelope evacuation at DeKalb County Courthouse |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
DeKalb County Police Conduct Major Drug Raid in Scottdale
Frustration Grows Among ‘No Kings’ Protest Organizers in Atlanta
Atlanta’s Progress in Public Safety Highlighted at Breakfast
16-Year-Old Boy in Critical Condition After Drive-By Shooting
Man Fatally Shot in Southwest Atlanta Neighborhood
Tragic Shooting in Southwest Atlanta Claims Young Life
Stolen Vehicle Crashes into Downtown Atlanta Building
Stolen Vehicle Crashes into Building in Downtown Atlanta
Tragic Fiery Crash Claims Six Lives in Gwinnett County
Journalist Mario Guevara Deported After Detention
Additional Resources
- WSBTV: Bomb squad responds to outlet store off I-85, DeKalb County
- Atlanta News First: Bomb squad responds to outlet store off I-85, DeKalb County
- Decaturish: Report – DeKalb Courthouse briefly evacuated due to suspicious package
- Patch: Evacuation underway at DeKalb Courthouse
- Google Search: Suspicious packages public safety
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
