Nolensville Pike closed near Mapco after suspicious dumpster materials prompt MNPD hazardous devices investigation

Road closures and public-safety response in South Nashville

A stretch of Nolensville Pike in South Nashville was closed Friday night, Feb. 6, 2026, as Metro Nashville Police investigated a report of “potentially dangerous material” found inside a dumpster at a Mapco convenience store. The closure affected Nolensville Pike between Interstate 440 and Vivelle Avenue, with Glenrose Avenue also shut down in the immediate area.

Police dispatched the department’s Hazardous Devices Unit to evaluate the items after patrol officers at the scene assessed the contents and deemed them concerning. The response included a precautionary evacuation of the immediate area while specialized personnel examined the materials.

What officials said was found

Authorities said the items recovered from the dumpster included liquids and household-type materials. After on-site examination, the materials were deemed hazardous, though officials said the extent of the hazard was not immediately clear. By about 11 p.m. Friday, police reported the items had been disabled and secured.

Investigators stated they believe the materials were being used in an attempt to make an explosive device. Police also said the materials would be examined and analyzed further in the days ahead to determine exactly what was assembled.

Traffic impacts and next steps in the investigation

Metro officials advised drivers to avoid the area during the response. Transportation updates indicated the closure was expected to continue into the overnight hours as investigators worked, with the roadway to reopen after police cleared the scene.

Police said the investigation remains active and that detectives are reviewing surveillance video and pursuing leads related to the person believed to be connected to the materials left at the location.

Context: why disposal and reporting matters

Hazardous or suspicious materials in public trash receptacles can trigger specialized responses because the risks are often unknown at the time of the initial call—ranging from toxic exposure to the possibility that items were assembled for harmful purposes. Metro provides designated options for residents to dispose of household hazardous waste, including chemicals and certain automotive fluids, through convenience centers designed to handle such materials safely.

• Nolensville Pike closure: between I-440 and Vivelle Avenue
• Additional closure: Glenrose Avenue in the immediate area
• Location cited by police: Mapco, 2200 Nolensville Pike

Police described the initial report as “potentially dangerous material” and said the Hazardous Devices Unit was called to investigate the dumpster contents.

As of Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, police have not publicly released laboratory findings on the recovered materials or announced an arrest in connection with the incident.