Update on Serious Explosion in Woodburn that Injured Police

Isham says a multi-agency investigation involving federal, state, county and city police agencies has begun to identify the person(s) responsible in this tragic incident.

Salem-News.com

(WOODBURN, Ore.) - Law enforcement agencies have descended on Woodburn, Oregon, where an explosion ripped through a bank today seriously injuring three police officers. A bank employee received injuries that are described as minor.

Marion County Sheriff Russ Isham says this morning at approximately 10:32 AM, a Woodburn-area Wells Fargo Bank received a threatening phone call from an unknown person.

"Bank personnel notified Woodburn Police Department and the bank was evacuated while police investigated with the assistance of the FBI and an Oregon State Police bomb technician," Isham said.

During the day the investigation led to the West Coast Bank on Highway 214 just east of Interstate 5. Isham says the day took an unexpected, tragic turn shortly before 5:30 PM.

"While investigators were in the area, a suspicious device detonated at approximately 5:24 PM. Two Woodburn police officers and an Oregon State Police bomb technician received serious injuries and a bank employee received minor injuries." The officer's names and the bank employee's name are not being released at this time.

Isham says a multi-agency investigation involving federal, state, county and city police agencies has begun to identify the person(s) responsible in this tragic incident.

The investigation is being coordinated by Marion County Sheriff's Office working in conjunction with an interagency team of investigators and the Marion County District Attorney's Office. Anyone with information is asked to call the tip line at 800-800-3855.

Officials report Highway 214 and some surrounding city streets are closed and may remain so throughout the weekend. Those who need to travel in this area are asked to take an alternative route.

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Here is our original article on the explosion in Woodburn: Explosive Device Blows Up Seriously Injuring Police in Woodburn (AUDIO)