By JR Robinson | JustMyMemphis.com

A Tuesday evening walk along one of the Memphis area's popular nature trails took an unexpected turn after a passer-by spotted what appeared to be a hand grenade — prompting a swift response from the Shelby County Sheriff's Office Bomb Unit.

At approximately 8:56 p.m. on March 31, 2026, SCSO patrol deputies and the department's specialized Bomb Unit were dispatched to a walking trail near the intersection of Germantown Parkway and Wolf River Boulevard. The reported item had been discovered in an undeveloped wooded section along the Wolf River — an area frequently used by hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts.

According to SCSO, the object resembled a hand grenade but showed clear signs of age. "The item resembled a hand grenade, but appeared significantly deteriorated and weathered," the department stated in an official release. Investigators believe the item's heavily degraded condition suggests it is likely a relic from a much earlier era rather than a modern threat.

Bomb Unit personnel located the item in the undeveloped stretch along the riverbank, rendered it safe, and disposed of it — all without incident. Authorities were clear in their assessment of the situation's intent: "There was no indication that this item was placed to cause property damage or injury."

For at least one trail user learning of the discovery after the fact, the news was unsettling. Anna Patton said she was caught off guard by the report. "I'm definitely shocked," Patton said. "I probably, maybe would have picked a different area had I known that before we got out of the car." She added that the find raises broader questions about what can turn up in secluded natural spaces. "It does kind of make you wonder," she said, "but I guess you never know what people are up to in a wooded area."

The Bomb Unit's rapid and professional response ensured the scene was resolved safely and without disruption to surrounding roads or neighborhoods. No injuries were reported.

SCSO has not indicated that any criminal investigation is ongoing in connection with the item.

Officials and safety experts encourage trail users throughout the Memphis area to follow a simple but important rule: if you ever encounter an unfamiliar object in a park, along a trail, or in any undeveloped area — do not touch it. Move away from the item, note its location, and call 911 immediately. Leave the assessment to trained professionals.

The Wolf River corridor remains one of the region's most cherished natural amenities. Tuesday night's incident serves as a timely reminder that staying alert and reporting the unexpected is one of the best ways community members can keep these shared spaces safe for everyone.