A device made to look like a real bomb was discovered Sunday in a back alley between the 200 blocks of Franklin and Vance streets, according to Roanoke Rapids police.

The device was discovered around 1 p.m., and contained road flares with a battery pack and a clock, Chief Andy Jackson said.

Police sealed off the area and informed residents in the area.

State Bureau of Investigation explosives technicians were called to investigate. The SBI determined it was a dummy bomb.

Police continue to investigate, Jackson said, as even making a phony bomb has the potential for local and federal charges to be filed.

“We take all issues like this serious,” Jackson said, “and it is being investigated. It's not a fun joke to play this day and time and it's something to me I can't believe anyone would do. The feds could get involved. People need to be wary and need to have respect. Malicious jokes and pranks like this need to stop.”