Bomb squad talks about pipe bomb scare

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Police continue to search for a suspect after a homemade explosive was found near the U.S. Federal Penitentiary in Terre Haute.

The amateur pipe bomb was rendered safe, ending the possible danger.

However, officials said any situation involving a bomb is anything but predictable.

That's when people like Sgt. Chad Hilton step in. He's the commander of the bomb squad for the Indiana State Police.

200 times a year his department is called to deal with potential bombs in the area.

"Typically what goes through my mind are the steps I need to take to be safe," Hilton said.

Thursday, he had to help render safe the pipe bomb found in Terre Haute.

After the danger's over, most would be glad just to be alive, but he's still focusing on the job.

It's a mission to keep you safe. If you ask him why he does it, he'll tell you it's necessary even right here in Terre Haute.

"I mean that federal penitentiary and who they have inside there, why would it not be a target?" Hilton said.

If you have any information on yesterday's pipe bomb found, you're asked to call the Vigo County Sheriff's Department or the Indiana State Police.