Press Release: MCSO Bomb Squad Disposes of Military Phosphorus Flare That Washed Up on Zmudowski State Beach

Written By Jared Abrego

DATE/TIME: 11/22/25 at 2:00 PM

TYPE OF INCIDENT: Monterey County Sheriff’s Bomb Squad Disposes of Unexploded Military

Phosphorus Flare at Zmudowski State Beach-

LOCATION: Zmudowski State Beach, Monterey County, California

MEDIA CONTACT: Andres Rosas, Commander 831-261-5492; Email: rosasae@countyofmonterey.gov

On Saturday November 22nd, 2025, just before 11:00 AM, The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office received a call of an approximate 27-inch long unexploded military phosphorus flare that washed up on the north end of Zmudowski State Beach in North Monterey County.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Bomb Squad responded and was able to dispose of the device at about 1:10 PM at the location where it was found. People in the surrounding area may have noticed and felt a large boom at that time.

We remind the community that if you come across such devices, they can be dangerous. Do not touch the device and immediately call 911.

Jared Abrego
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