SEASIDE PARK — Federal authorities have joined the investigation into the Saturday morning bombing on a residential street that was set to be used as a route for a military charity race.

Nobody was injured in the explosion, which was contained in a plastic trash can on the curb of the intersection of D Street and Ocean Avenue.

Authorities quickly ruled out a prank or an accident, however, after they reportedly discovered two more undetonated shrapnel devices connected to the exploded device. The timing of the explosion and its failure to completely detonate prevented further property damage or injuries, a spokesman for the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office said.



The state Attorney General's Office did not confirm the report of the additional undetonated devices, but said no other explosives were found elsewhere in the borough.

The explosion occurred about 9:30 a.m. just as 3,000 of runners and spectators were queuing up for the 5K Semper Five run to support Marine and sailor veterans and families.

The explosion blew holes through the trash can and sent up a plume of smoke, witnesses said.

 

The FBI and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives were on the scene with the State Police and local and county authorities.

Gov. Chris Christie was briefed on the incident and the New York City Police Counterterroism Bureau said it was "closely monitoring" developments.

“We are grateful that nobody was injured, but this is a serious act of violence against the people of New Jersey," Attorney General Christopher Porrino said Saturday afternoon. "We will not rest until we find the person or persons responsible.”

Authorities said they do not have any suspects.

The borough was placed on lockdown, several blocks near the explosion were evacuated and the event was canceled. Other garbage cans were searched but nothing more was found, including in an unattended backpack found near the explosion.

Other Jersey Shore towns beefed up police presence as a result of the explosion.

Porrino urged anyone with information to call the State Police Homeland Security Tipline at 1-866-4SAFENJ.

Dan Alexander contributed to this report.

Sergio Bichao is deputy digital editor at New Jersey 101.5. Send him news tips: Call 609-438-1015 or email sergio.bichao@townsquaremedia.com.

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