Suspicious Package at Former Synagogue in Mansfield Cleared by Authorities

Joe Lyons • November 5, 2024

Suspicious Package at Former Synagogue in Mansfield Cleared by Authorities

November, 5, 2024, Mansfield, OH — A suspicious package found at 973 Larchwood Road. The property, which previously served as a Jewish synagogue and now operates as the McElvain Group Home for individuals with developmental disabilities, became the focus of heightened concern due to past threats targeting the location.

Around 1:30 p.m., the Mansfield Police Division reached out to the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad for assistance after a potentially dangerous package was discovered on the premises. Authorities explained that given the site’s history of prior threats — including reports of potential gun violence — they were compelled to conduct a thorough investigation.

Mansfield Police emphasized the importance of conducting “due diligence” given the sensitivity of the location and its history. Officers promptly evacuated the area and implemented safety protocols as the bomb squad assessed the package.

Following a careful inspection, authorities confirmed that the item was, in fact, a legitimate package and posed no threat. Law enforcement officials cleared the scene shortly afterward, reassuring community members that the area was safe.