12/11/2025
Update 3:15 PM: Earlier today, a live hand gr***de was discovered inside a donation bin at Goodwill (103 S. State Road 19). The Palatka Police Department responded immediately, secured the scene, and evacuated the building out of an abundance of caution.
The St. Johns County Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad was then requested to assist, and the device was safely retrieved and remotely detonated in a secure location.
We want to remind the community to thoroughly check all items before donating, ensuring that hazardous items, such as explosives, fi****ms, or ammunition, are not accidentally included.
If you ever locate something that appears to be a hand gr***de or other explosive device, do not touch or handle it. Immediately evacuate the area and call law enforcement.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping keep our community safe.
Original Post: The Palatka Police Department is currently investigating a suspicious package located at Goodwill, 103 South State Road 19. There is a heavy law enforcement presence in the area out of an abundance of caution.
Please avoid this area if possible while our officers and partner agencies work to ensure everyone’s safety.
At this time, no other businesses are affected beyond Goodwill.
