Warwick homes evacuated in bomb scare

WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) -- A bomb squad robot dismantled two suspicious packages found at the scene of a house fire in Warwick Monday morning.

According to the state Fire Marshal's Office, one of the packages, which were destroyed in the backyard of 88 Greylawn Ave., contained ammunition.

It all started around 9:20 a.m. Monday, when crews were called to the house, right off of Warwick Ave., for reports of a fire.

When they arrived to the ranch-style house, firefighters saw smoke coming from the home. Less than 20 minutes later, the fire, which was in the basement, was under control. However, once inside, crews discovered a man's body in a bedroom, according to the fire chief.

Police said they believe the man, 58-year-old Richard Dodd, took his own life.

Arson investigators were called in to investigate, and shortly after 11 a.m., the bomb squad arrived with a robot.

Fire officials evacuated neighbors directly bordering the home as a precaution.

Police Capt. Paul Coffey said an eviction notice was being served at the home Monday morning. That's when he said two gunshots were heard and smoke was seen coming from the home.

Both packages were dismantled safely.