Suspicious package closes Deal street

Tension on a Deal street gradually subsides as a probe of a suspicious package winds down with no threat and no injuries.

Police cordoned off Norwood Avenue from Roseld to Brighton, on either end of the spot near Lehman Avenue where the large black duffle bag was found. It was reported at about 1:35 PM. Investigators later determined that the bag contained audio equipment.

According to authorities, a concerned citizen found the bag by itself in the road, at the intersection of Norwood and Brighton.

Intending to be a Good Samaritan, the individual placed it in the back of his four-door, white sedan, and began to drive away, but became wary and called police when he thought he detected an odor emanating from it.

Responding officers found the duffle still in the back of the car. The New Jersey State Police bomb squad and several bomb-detection dogs of the Monmouth County Sheriff's Office were called in, along with Deal firefighters and first-aiders.

Meanwhile, police checked and cleared all houses of worship, religious centers and schools in the vicinity, concluding the investigation at about 4:20 PM.

Deal Police issue a reminder to civilians - never approach, or touch packages that appear suspicious in nature. Call law enforcement immediately.