INDIANAPOLIS — The Marion County Coroner's Office called in the bomb squad Friday morning after a suspected explosive device was found on the body of a 30-year-old man killed in a police chase crash earlier this week.
Both the Marion County and Johnson County coroners confirmed the deceased individual was Marco Antonio Pena Morales of Chicago, Illinois, who died Wednesday night when his truck crashed on I-65 during a police pursuit.
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Johnson County Deputy Coroners initially responded to the crash scene; however, they requested to transfer Pena Morales' body to the Marion County Coroner's Office for examination due to the investigation originating in Marion County.
According to the office, personnel removed the individual from the vehicle and coordinated the transfer.
When Pena Morales' body arrived at the Marion County Coroner's Office Friday morning, officials discovered what appeared to be a suspected explosive device on the body.
"Our protocols were immediately followed, and the bomb squad was called in as a precaution," Marion County coroner's office officials said. "We are relieved to report that the device has been safely removed from our premises. At this time, all of our staff are safe, and there is no ongoing threat."
Johnson County Coroner Mike Pruitt said his biggest concern from the incident was the safety of all personnel involved.
"God was looking out for everyone on the scene and at the Marion County Coroner's Office," Pruitt said.
IMPD said this is not believed to be a targeted act of violence toward any person or entity.
The matter remains under investigation.
