A sex toy mistaken for a suspicious device triggered a bomb squad response and shut down a major Washington DC roadway during Wednesday morning's rush hour. The incident, which unfolded near the Tenleytown fire station, caused significant traffic delays before authorities identified the object as an electronic sex portable pump device.
Bomb Squad Called to Scene on Wisconsin Avenue
At approximately 7 am, a witness reported seeing someone place a suspicious package inside a trash can near the Tenleytown fire station. According to the incident report, a person approached an employee outside DC Fire and EMS Engine 20 and left a "blue-and-black electronic device" with exposed wires. The Metropolitan police department's bomb squad and K-9 unit were immediately dispatched to investigate.
Wisconsin Avenue was shut down between 40th Street and Warren Street for nearly two hours, with several lanes on nearby streets also blocked. Traffic was halted in both directions, causing a standstill for commuters. After examining the device, authorities determined there was no danger and the police report later identified the object as an "electronic sex portable pump device."
Social Media Identifies the Device
Eagle-eyed social media users quickly recognized the device as a toy known as the "Zolo Blowbot" or a similar item. According to the Zolo company website, the toy features "adjustable suction levels" and a "drying function" for hygienic purposes. It currently sells for more than $300. The scene was cleared and Wisconsin Avenue reopened to traffic, with no injuries reported.
Not the First Time Sex Toys Have Stopped Traffic
This incident is surprisingly not unique. In September 2022, a semi-truck flipped over on an Oklahoma interstate, spilling adult items and lubricant across the road. Helicopter footage showed the aftermath, with reporter Jim Gardner quipping, "This is a semi that overturned and lost its load here. There is a lot of stuff to clean up."
Comparison of Traffic-Stopping Incidents
| Incident | Location | Cause | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sex toy in trash bin | Washington DC | Mistaken for bomb | 2 hours |
| Semi-truck spill | Oklahoma interstate | Overturned truck | Several hours |
Key Takeaways
- Always report suspicious devices, but be aware that not all are dangerous.
- Bomb squads are trained to handle a wide range of objects, including sex toys.
- Social media can quickly identify unusual items, as seen with the Zolo Blowbot.
- Traffic disruptions can occur from unexpected incidents, so stay informed.
FAQ
FAQ
What happened in Washington DC with the sex toy?
A sex toy was mistaken for a suspicious device, causing the bomb squad to shut down Wisconsin Avenue for nearly two hours during rush hour.
Why did the bomb squad respond?
A witness reported a suspicious package with exposed wires, prompting the bomb squad and K-9 unit to investigate. The device turned out to be an electronic sex pump.
Has this happened before?
Yes, in 2022, a semi-truck spill scattered sex toys and lubricant across an Oklahoma interstate, causing a similar traffic disruption.
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