HOUSTON – A checkpoint at William P. Hobby Airport was shut down Thursday after a fake grenade was found in a bag, officials said.
The device was reported around 4:30 a.m. when it was found in a bag at a TSA screening checkpoint, airport officials said. Passengers were told to run and clear the area, travelers said.
The TSA security line has been closed due to a suspicious device being found during screening. Please check with your carrier to see if your flight is being impacted by this delay. We will post updates as they become available.
— Hobby Airport (@HobbyAirport) June 7, 2018
One passenger said they were told of a suspicious bag, but not much further information was given to travelers during the investigation.
VIDEO: Traveler recalls grenade scare at Hobby Airport
An explosive unit was called to investigate if the device was active, but was turned around when police discovered the grenade was a toy.
Police said a 17-year-old Boy Scout was carrying the toy as part of a future exercise on what not to bring to an airport.
BREAKING: 17-year-old Boy Scout detained after security scare at @HobbyAirport. @houstonpolice say he was carrying a toy grenade in his bag. No word on any penalties. @KPRC2 #kprc2 pic.twitter.com/T2UIObbhCH
— KPRC Cathy Hernandez (@KPRC2Cathy) June 7, 2018
The teenager was kept for questioning and allowed to continue on his flight about an hour later, police said. It is unclear if he will face charges or fines.
The checkpoint was reopened just after 5:30 a.m. after the device was removed.
Airport officials said travelers should expect delays and to check with airlines to see if flights were affected.
Southwest currently has 12 delayed flights and @Delta has one. @SouthwestAir is holding flights due to the security delay. Contact your carrier to check if your flight has been impacted. #fly2houston
— Hobby Airport (@HobbyAirport) June 7, 2018