HILLCREST, N.Y. — A piece of decades-old military ordnance was safely removed from a Hillcrest residence Sunday evening after being discovered during a basement cleanout, according to the Ramapo Police Department.

Police were called to the home after the homeowner found what appeared to be an old munitions device, believed to have belonged to a Korean War veteran who once lived at the property. Because it was unclear whether the device was still active, officers contacted the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Disposal Unit as a precaution.

Bomb technicians responded to the scene, evaluated the device using specialized equipment, and safely removed it from the home. Authorities said the situation was handled without incident, and no residents were injured.

Police reported that everything was resolved smoothly and there was no threat to the surrounding neighborhood.

ROCKLAND COUNTY, N.Y. — Two New York State Troopers were recognized this week for their extraordinary bravery after rescuing a driver trapped in a burning vehicle on the Palisades Interstate Parkway.

The Rockland County Fire Chiefs Association honored Troopers Derick Macaulay and Peter Pjetri for their life-saving actions during a serious crash that occurred on September 14, 2025.

According to officials, the troopers were among the first to arrive at the scene, where they found a driver pinned inside a vehicle that had caught fire following the collision. Acting without hesitation, Troopers Macaulay and Pjetri worked together to free the driver and pull him to safety as flames intensified.

Authorities say their swift action, courage under extreme danger, and commitment to duty prevented what would almost certainly have been a fatal outcome. Thanks to their efforts, the driver survived the crash and was able to return home to his family.

The Fire Chiefs Association commended the troopers for embodying the highest standards of public service and valor.