Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

Potentially hazardous nuclear gauge missing in Las Vegas; reward offered

Click to enlarge photo

A courtesy image of a nuclear density gauge, which is a tool that measures the density and moisture content of soil by emitting radiation.

A nuclear gauge containing radioactive materials tumbled off a pickup truck near Charleston and Lamb boulevards earlier this week, and police are asking the public for help locating the potentially dangerous item.

Metro Police said the device, used to measure the density and moisture content of soil by emitting radiation, fell off the truck on Tuesday. Police said the gauge could expose a person to unhealthy doses of radiation if they damage or alter it.

It is described as an orange plastic box measuring 14 inches by 9 inches with an electronic keypad display and a metal probe. The gauge weighs 31 pounds and has a handle that extends 22 inches above the base.

It is labeled with the word “RADIOACTIVE” and is marked with a radiation symbol. The manufacturer’s name is Campbell Pacific Nuclear, or CPN.

The owner, Geo Tek Inc., is offering a reward for anyone who returns the gauge. For more information, call Geo Tek representative Steve Johnson at (702) 210-7397.

Tipsters can also call Metro Police at 828-3111 or Nevada’s Radiation Control Program at 1-877-438-7231.

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