Explosive Device Detonated on Suffolk County Island Prompts Investigation

Photo Credit: Michael Serrell / Priority News Network

An explosion that could be heard from more than 3 miles away early Sunday afternoon prompted an intense police investigation on a remote island off the coast of the Town of Babylon.

At around 11AM on Sunday afternoon, residents on the mainland of Suffolk County and other southern waterfront communities heard a large explosion come from the south. The Suffolk County Police Department received multiple 911 calls shortly after the explosion was heard.

The Suffolk County Police Marine Bureau investigated the area alongside multiple helicopters to find a source of the explosion. At approximately 11:40AM, according to Suffolk County Police, the Marine Bureau spotted a large crater on Fox Island, which is located off the coast of the Town of Babylon. Officers reported finding a crater on the island that was about four feet wide and two feet deep. Police say that the crater was created when the device was detonated on the island.

Credit: Michael S. / Priority News Network

Witnesses report a plume of smoke being visible over the island shortly after the unknown explosive device was detonated.

Arson Squad detectives are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the operator of a vessel that was seen leaving the area at the time of the detonation. Police say the boat is described to have stripes on it and are currently investigating further.

Detectives urge anyone with information to call the Arson Section at 631-852-6024 or to anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential.