Authorities say a small explosive device has been neutralized at the McCook airport in southwest Nebraska.

Transportation Security Agency workers spotted a suspicious item along an exterior wall a little after 9:30 a.m. Thursday. Nearby buildings were evacuated and firefighters were summoned.

Nebraska State Patrol bomb experts also were called in, and the device was rendered harmless by 1:45p.m. Police say the item turned out to be a plastic container with two wires protruding from the lid, with a live shotgun shell and metal objects inside.

The airport was reopened by 2:30 p.m.

Police say a person of interest has been identified. A police dispatcher said Friday morning that no arrest has been reported.