World War II era bomb found at Hernando Airport Industrial Park, situation resolved: Deputies

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. - Hernando County deputies said they believe a World War II era bomb was found in the Airport Industrial Park near American Aviation. 

Photo courtesy: Hernando County Sheriff's Office

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office said deputies were at the scene along Helicopter Drive near Flight Path Drive. They said they got a call from a construction company after they unearthed the decayed object. 

According to authorities, deputies are assessing what is believed to be a "very old Mark 65 bomb." Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis said it's believed to be a World War II era bomb that could weigh around 1,000 pounds.

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Dr. Angie Zambek, an associate professor of history at UNC Wilmington, said the discovery speaks to the rich history of the area. 

"The bomb itself was an unguided gravity bomb," she said. "It was essentially just TNT in metal casing."

The airport was formerly the Brooksville Army Airfield where World War II bombers trained. 

"The origin of that bomb was definitely Eglin Air Force Base," she said. "They're dropped out of planes, and they're not smart bombs."

Less than one mile away from where the bomb was found, there's a gunnery backstop that will soon be turned into a historical exhibit. 

The Citrus County bomb squad as well as representatives from MacDill Air Force Base responded to the scene. Bomb squad crews did determine that the bomb is "inert" and not live. 

Deputies said the situation was resolved, and Spring Hill Drive between US-41 and California Street is now open. MacDill AFB's team will help dispose of the bomb, according to deputies.