Suspicious package at Liberty University determined to be HVAC equipment

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LYNCHBURG (WSLS 10) - Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to a bomb threat at Liberty University on Wednesday morning.

Liberty contacted state police and asked for bomb technicians after a suspicious package was found in the vicinity of LaHaye Ice Center and University Boulevard.

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With the assistance of the ATF, the object was identified as a piece of HVAC equipment, according to Dorothy Bernstein with state police.

She said the package has been identified, removed and state police rendered the object safe.

Bernstein also said the scene has been cleared.

Liberty University released this statement on Wednesday afternoon:

An item was found on public property along University Boulevard this morning, near Liberty University's LaHaye Ice Center. It was reported by a police officer from another jurisdiction. Virginia State Police were notified because the item was located off private property. Virginia State Police responded and followed their protocols for keeping people a safe distance away from the area so they could investigate the item. The item was not determined to be an explosive device.

Liberty Christian Academy Superintendent John Patterson released this statement regarding the situation:

We want to make you aware that the Liberty University Police Department  (LUPD) and Virginia State Police have identified a potential safety concern on Liberty University's campus in the area of LaHaye ice Center and University Blvd. LUPD is humbly requesting that everyone stay out of that area at this time and obey all instructions given by emergency personnel. There is no identified danger at this time. LCA will continue to operate on a normal schedule. We will communicate with you should there be any changes. Thank you for your support and cooperation.

The Lynchburg and Liberty University Police Departments assisted.