Domestic terrorist hits Austin

Device at women's health clinic was an explosive, sources say (Austin-American Statesman)

A package found Wednesday in the parking lot of a South Austin women's clinic contained an explosive device, four sources familiar with the investigation said today.

Local and federal authorities are planning a news conference at 2 p.m. to discuss the investigation, which will be headed by federal officials.

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The package was found about 2 p.m. Wednesday in the parking lot of the Austin Women's Health Center at 1902 S. Interstate 35, north of Oltorf Street. The clinic provides services including abortion.

UPDATE:

A package found Wednesday in the parking lot of a South Austin women's clinic contained an explosive powder, authorities said today.

Austin police said the device could have caused serious injury or death had it detonated before a clinic employee discovered it and notified authorities.

"The device was a dangerous device," David Carter, an Austin assistant police chief, said at a press conference this afternoon. "We believe it was capable of detonation."

He declined to be more specific. Officials have not commented on any possible suspects or motives and have not said what else was in the device.