Teenager Discovers Live WW2 Bomb with Underwater Drone
In a remarkable turn of events in the United Kingdom, a teenager’s underwater exploration led to the discovery of a live World War II bomb packed with 250kg of explosives. Cameron Makewell, a 14-year-old from Ripon, was reportedly piloting his underwater drone in the River Ure when he encountered a mysterious cylindrical object. Initially mistaking it for a gas canister, Cameron’s father, Adam Makewell, quickly identified it as a WW2 bomb, unaware at the time that it was still live.
Unexpected Encounter With Underwater Drone
The father-son duo had ventured to the River Ure to test new lighting equipment for their remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). After completing their tests, Cameron continued exploring the riverbed, stumbling upon the ominous object. Adam, recognizing the danger, stayed calm to avoid alarming his son. The bomb, later identified as a SC500kg aerial explosive commonly used by the Luftwaffe during the Blitz, posed a significant threat.
Emergency Response
Adam and Cameron promptly reported their findings to the local police, who initially met their claims with skepticism. However, upon viewing the footage, authorities took the matter seriously and involved a specialist Royal Navy bomb disposal unit from Glasgow. The unit, facing challenges due to heavy rain and reduced visibility, eventually conducted a controlled explosion, safely detonating the bomb and leaving a substantial crater in the riverbed.
Historical Significance
The discovery has sparked further interest in the local history of the area during WW2. The River Ure was used as a training site for bomb technicians, raising questions about how the live bomb ended up there. Adam speculates it could have been dropped by a returning German bomber or left by Royal Engineers during training exercises.
This incident highlights the enduring legacy of World War II and the potential dangers that still lurk in unexpected places in the United Kingdom. Cameron’s discovery serves as a reminder of the importance of careful exploration and the ongoing efforts to address the remnants of past conflicts. The local community hopes that the bomb might one day be displayed in a museum, preserving this piece of history for future generations.
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