On Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at about 7:15 AM, members of the Rome Police Patrol Division
responded to 525 Brooks Road, which contains the facility of the Air Force Research Lab and DFAS, for a
suspicious activity complaint. The Air Force Research Lab – Division of Police reported that during a routine
scan, a commercial vehicle visiting the facility alerted to containing explosive material. The facility was
subsequently closed and traffic rerouted.
Rome Police patrol units initially secured the scene and provided traffic services. The Oneida County
Sheriff’s Office canine unit responded, as well as the New York State Police Bomb Disposal Unit. Following
the investigation, it was determined there was no evidence the commercial vehicle contained explosive material
and was rendered safe and clear. The investigation was then turned over to the Department of the Air Force
Office of Special Investigations.
During this incident, the Rome Police Department was assisted by the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office,
the New York State Police, the Air Force Research Lab – Division of Police, the Department of the Air Force
Office of Special Investigations, and the Rome Fire Department.
Close Call – Explosive Detected at Rome DFAS Air Force Research Lab
