A public hospital in Toulouse, France, was placed under emergency evacuation after doctors discovered a live World War I-era artillery shell inside a patient during medical treatment. The incident caused widespread alarm, prompting the involvement of bomb disposal and emergency services.
The case occurred at Rangueil Hospital, where a 24-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department late at night, complaining of severe pain. Initial medical examinations indicated the presence of an unusual foreign object, following which doctors decided to carry out an urgent surgical procedure.
Shocking Discovery During Surgery
During surgery, medical staff were stunned to find an approximately eight-inch-long artillery shell, believed to date back to 1918. The projectile appeared intact and potentially active. Hospital authorities immediately alerted the bomb squad and fire services after the discovery.
As a precaution, the hospital administration ordered a complete evacuation of the premises. Patients, doctors, and staff were moved to safety while a security cordon was established around the hospital complex. Officials feared that any disturbance to the device could trigger an explosion, posing a serious threat to life and infrastructure.
Bomb Squad Neutralises Threat
Bomb disposal experts arrived on the scene and carried out a detailed inspection of the shell. After assessment, the device was safely defused and removed from the hospital. Authorities confirmed that there was no explosion and no injuries related to the evacuation.
The patient remained under medical supervision following surgery and is reported to be recovering. Officials have not yet disclosed how the individual came into possession of the artillery shell or the circumstances under which it was used.
Possible Legal Action
French authorities are preparing to question the patient once his condition stabilises. Under French law, World War-era artillery shells fall under Category A munitions, making their possession and handling a serious criminal offence. Legal action is being considered for the illegal possession and endangerment of public safety.
Historical Context of the Explosive
The shell is believed to have been used by the Imperial German Army during World War I. Thousands of such unexploded devices remain buried across France and neighbouring regions, remnants of the Western Front battles fought between 1914 and 1918.
Each year, French authorities conduct the “Iron Harvest”, a large-scale operation to recover unexploded ordnance discovered in fields, construction sites, and excavation areas. Farmers and construction workers frequently encounter these dangerous relics, which are then neutralised by specialised teams.
A Stark Reminder
Officials say the incident highlights the dangers of careless handling of historical explosives. What may begin as a reckless act or misguided experiment can quickly escalate into a major public safety threat. Authorities confirmed that swift action prevented a potential disaster in this case.
