A section of Fort Totten Park in Washington, D.C. will remain closed as authorities continue to investigate the discovery of World War I-era munitions in the area. The National Park Service and U.S. Army released a statement on Thursday, revealing that the metal projectiles were first found in April, and further investigation has led them to suspect the presence of additional munitions in the park. The exact details of what prompted this suspicion were not disclosed.

The initial discovery took place on April 18 when an adjacent property owner conducted unauthorized work and pushed approximately 10 feet of soil onto Fort Totten Park. Two metal canisters were found as a result of this activity. One of the munitions was identified as a 75-mm projectile, measuring about 11 inches in length, while the other was a 19-inch-long Livens projector, a weapon similar to a mortar that was used to launch gas bombs during World War I. Following the discovery, nearby subway trains bypassed the Fort Totten stop for over an hour as a precautionary measure, according to CBS affiliate WUSA-TV.

Upon examination, Army experts determined that the 75-mm projectile contained only soil and did not pose a hazard. However, the Livens projector was found to be filled 85% with an unknown liquid. Initial testing of the liquid was inconclusive, prompting officials to transport it to the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland for further analysis. After extensive testing, it was determined that the liquid in the Livens projector was 99.9994% water and 0.0006% acetophenone, a non-hazardous chemical commonly used in the perfume industry, as a flavoring agent in foods, and as a solvent for plastics and resins.

Interestingly, this is not the first time that munitions have been found in Fort Totten Park. CBS affiliate WUSA-TV reported that about two years ago, officials discovered an empty, unfused WWI-era metal canister in the same location. These repeated findings have raised concerns among local officials and residents. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton wrote a letter to National Park Service Director Charles Sams, calling for a comprehensive investigation into the presence of ordinances, soil, and groundwater contamination throughout the park.

The National Park Service has taken immediate action to ensure public safety. A section of Fort Totten Park has been closed off, with fencing, cement barriers, and "no trespassing" signs put in place. Visitors are strongly advised to stay away from the area. In the event that anyone comes across a munition, they are urged to consider it dangerous, refrain from approaching or touching it, and immediately notify the police.

Fort Totten, which was completed in 1863, served as part of the Northern Defenses during the Civil War. It was named in honor of Brig. Gen. Joseph G. Totten, who had previously served as the Chief Engineer of the U.S. It is currently uncertain when the park will reopen, as officials are seeking funding for a comprehensive investigation.