Suspicious backpack investigated at South Gate Towne Center

SOUTH GATE, Calif. (KABC) -- The bomb squad was called in to investigate a suspicious backpack outside the South Gate Towne Center early Friday morning.

It started as a report of a possible carjacking behind the Sam's Club in the 5000 block of Firestone Boulevard. Responding officers learned that a carjacking had not occurred but were able to locate the suspect.

The suspect told officers he had a bomb in his backpack and that he was holding a detonator in his hand. Officers convinced the suspect to remove the backpack and took him into custody. The object in his hand turned out to be a cellphone battery.

The bomb squad disposed of the backpack, and no one was injured. Entrances to the mall were closed for the investigation, but they have since reopened.

The suspect's identity was not immediately released. Authorities believe he suffers from some type of mental disorder. He was expected to be transported for a 72-hour psychological evaluation.