Baggage ‘explodes’ after being run over by luggage carrier at Midway Airport

Chicago, Illinois, USA - April 22, 2013:  Numerous Southwest Airlines Boeing 737's lined up for takeoff at Chicago Midway International Airport.

A piece of baggage has ‘exploded’ after a luggage carrier ran it over at Chicago Midway International Airport.

Chicago Police said the incident occurred at 12:18pm (local time), while a Level One Hazmat was declared, according to NBC Chicago.

According to reports citing a Chicago Fire Department spokesperson, the piece of luggage fell from the back of a transport and made a “popping sound”, and the bomb squad was reportedly called to Midway Airport to clear the scene.

Police reportedly said there was no threat to public safety, and airport operations resumed Monday afternoon.

Officials believe a cell phone battery or battery charge exploded inside a suitcase, and the bag did not “combust or explode on its own”, according to NBC Chicago, citing a Chicago police spokesperson.

“Thanks to everyone for being vigilant and to the firefighters, officers and technicians who assisted,” CPD spokesman Anthony Guglielmi told NBC Chicago.

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