Key Takeaways
- Reports of a suspected explosive device were received at Buckley Space Force Base on Monday at around 10:30 a.m.
- A 1,000-foot safety cordon was set up around the vehicle inspection bay, and the Aurora Police Department assisted in traffic control.
- Normal operations at the base resumed by 2:15 p.m., with the 6th Avenue entrance gate experiencing delays earlier in the day.
- The incident occurred at building 510, where a bomb squad technician was seen inspecting a truck with a robot and other equipment.
- The base is one of seven Space Force bases in the U.S. and is located about 20 miles east of downtown Denver and 15 miles south of Denver International Airport.
Introduction to the Incident
The U.S. Space Force reported a suspected explosive device at Buckley Space Force Base on Monday, December 29, 2025, at approximately 10:30 a.m. The incident occurred at a vehicle inspection bay, prompting a swift response from base security and local law enforcement. A 1,000-foot safety cordon was established around the affected area, and the Aurora Police Department assisted in traffic control, ensuring the safety of personnel and civilians in the surrounding area. As a precautionary measure, the 6th Avenue entrance gate experienced delays, but normal operations at the base resumed by 2:15 p.m.
Response and Investigation
The response to the incident involved a collaborative effort between base security, the Aurora Police Department, and a bomb squad. A bomb squad technician was seen inspecting a truck at the vehicle inspection bay, utilizing a robot and other equipment to assess the situation. The technician wore protective gear, highlighting the potential risks associated with the suspected explosive device. The use of a robot in the inspection process allowed for a safe and controlled examination of the vehicle, minimizing the risk of injury or damage. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with officials working to determine the nature of the suspected explosive device and the circumstances surrounding its discovery.
Base Operations and Security
Buckley Space Force Base is one of seven Space Force bases in the U.S. and is located about 20 miles east of downtown Denver and 15 miles south of Denver International Airport. The base has a rich history, having served as a military garrison under the U.S. Army, Air Force, and Navy at various times. It is currently home to Space Delta 4, the 140th Wing of the Colorado Air National Guard, and various other units. The base’s security protocols were triggered in response to the suspected explosive device, demonstrating the facility’s commitment to the safety and security of its personnel and the surrounding community. The swift response and effective communication between agencies ensured a timely resolution to the incident, with normal operations resuming by the afternoon.
Location and History
Buckley Space Force Base sits on land purchased by the City of Denver in 1938. The base has undergone several transformations over the years, having been formerly known as Buckley Air Force Base. Its strategic location, coupled with its rich history, makes it an important facility for the U.S. Space Force. The base is one of three Space Force bases in Colorado, with the other two being Peterson Space Force Base and Schriever Space Force Base, both located in Colorado Springs. The presence of these bases in the state highlights the significant role that Colorado plays in the country’s space and defense operations.
Conclusion and Ongoing Situation
The incident at Buckley Space Force Base on Monday highlights the importance of vigilance and effective response protocols in ensuring the safety and security of military personnel and the surrounding community. The successful resolution of the incident, with normal operations resuming by the afternoon, demonstrates the facility’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment. As the investigation into the suspected explosive device continues, officials will work to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with military operations and the importance of collaboration between agencies in responding to and resolving such incidents.