Kilmarnock homes were evacuated last night after the unexplained death of a man sparked a bomb squad callout.
Police discovered a suspicious item at the Craigie Court property after being called out to attend the sudden death of a man.
Cops confirmed this morning that the man's death was being treated as unexplained but wasn't thought to be suspicious.
However, a suspect item was unearthed at the Shortlees home and the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) unit was scrambled to the location.
And as a precaution, around 35 homes were evacuated and roads in the nearby vicinity were closed.
Around 3.15am, the roads were reopened and residents advised they could return home.
East Ayrshire Council tweeted last night: "We are currently supporting Ayrshire Police with the ongoing incident in Shortlees area, Kilmarnock.
"A temporary evacuation centre has been set up at Shortlees Community Centre for local residents and hot beverages will be provided."
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Officers were called to Craigie Court, Kilmarnock at around 2.25pm on Wednesday, December 22, following the sudden death of a man.
"The death is being treated as unexplained and there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances. Following enquiries, a suspicious item was discovered within the property and the EOD was contacted.
"As a precaution, a number of properties were evacuated and roads were closed in the vicinity."
Katie Kelly, depute chief executive at East Ayrshire Council said: "We were notified of an ongoing incident taking place near Craigie Court yesterday evening and our resilience teams responded to support the emergency services and to assist in ensuring the safety of residents in the area.
“A number of homes were evacuated as a precaution while investigations took place. We established a rest centre at Shortlees Community Centre where our housing and catering teams were on hand to look after residents and colleagues from heath and social care attended to assist with the elderly and vulnerable.
"Residents were safely returned to their homes at approximately 3.45am, however, police investigations are continuing.
“Our thoughts are with the people directly affected by this incident, and we thank all those involved for their swift and prompt response in ensuring the safety of the residents in the area.”
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