Freeborn County Government Center evacuated after pipe bomb found

The Freeborn County Government Center in Albert Lea was evacuated Friday afternoon after a pipe bomb was found inside the building.

The evacuation, which happened at around 3 p.m., came after a gun lock box was seized by Albert Lea police during a traffic arrest. The box was taken inside the building and opened, revealing an apparent pipe bomb.

During the evacuation, 911 calls were routed through neighboring Mower County.

The St. Paul Bomb Squad was called to the scene, and the bomb was eventually removed. Employees were allowed back into the building at around 6:45 p.m., while 911 dispatch began operating again just after 7 p.m.

The incident is currently under investigation.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.