Stephenville Mayor Bob Byrnes expressed concern after the RCMP transported a suspected Second World War-era explosive shell to a residential neighbourhood, causing distress among locals.The device, discovered on a St.George's beach, was brought to the Stephenville detachment by the RCMP before military experts from the Canadian Armed Forces could handle it.

Weighing about 50 pounds and standing roughly a foot tall, the shell was ultimately deemed stable, though experts emphasised that moving potential explosives is generally unsafe.Lt.

Andrew Macleod of the CAF Atlantic fleet diving unit noted that any interaction with such devices could trigger an explosion, reinforcing that moving them is highly discouraged.The shell was detonated safely by the military team on Thursday night, with nearby residents warned to prepare for possible evacuation.Some residents did temporarily leave their homes due to the potential danger.

Mayor Byrnes plans to meet with the RCMP and military personnel to discuss improved procedures for future incidents, acknowledging the psychological impact on the community.

The RCMP defended their decision, explaining the need to secure and continuously monitor the explosive while awaiting CAF assistance, and they appreciated the community's cooperation.The situation also prompted the detonation of a separate cannonball reported by another resident.

Authorities continue to stress that members of the public should never touch or attempt to move military ordnance, regardless of its age or condition.