Update: Virginia street re-open after authorities remove mortar

Update: Shortly after Virginia Police ordered an evacuation because they discovered a mortar round near Chestnut Street, they gave the all clear.

In the updated report, Virginia Police Department thanked the Duluth Minnesota Air National Guard for safely securing and removing the mortar.

Adding, the 400 block of Chestnut Street is re-opened.

VIRGINIA, MN -- Police have evacuated an area in Virginia, Minnesota Thursday after a military ordinance mortar round was found in a business’ basement wall.

According to Virginia Police, a contracting company working at the Arrowhead Bar on the 400 block of Chestnut Street discovered the mortar round around 2 p.m.

They called police, who evacuated and closed the 400 block of Chestnut Street as a safety precaution.

“The Minnesota Duty Officer was notified, and the Minnesota Air National Guard has been deployed to identify, analyze, and safely remove the mortar,” police said.

The Virginia Police Department will re-open the area when they believe it is safe.

They’re asking everyone to stay away from the area.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.