A radioactive well logging source holder reported missing in October 2015 has been found and returned to its owner, announced the Illinois Emergency Management Agency on Friday. The agency was notified Friday morning by Wayne County Well Surveys. The device had been delivered to the company’s facilities in Fairfield by a local farmer, who found it in his field.
The device is still in good condition and posed no threat to the public while it was missing.
“We are pleased that this device has been recovered and shows no signs of damage that could have exposed the public to unnecessary radiation. We appreciate the efforts of everyone who took part in the extensive search for this device,” said IEMA Director James K. Joseph.
Agencies participating in the search included the U.S. Department of Energy’s Radiological Assistance Program, Illinois State Police, Illinois Department of Transportation, local law enforcement and emergency management, and the public.
IEMA was notified that the item was missing in October and that it was last known to be in a company vehicle. The notification spurred on searches in 18 counties throughout Illinois and Indiana.
The agency is continuing to investigate the matter.
