The mayor of Nashville praised police in the Friday morning explosion as “incredible heroes” who ran into danger to save lives.
Mayor John Cooper said the six local police officers acted “quickly” to evacuate people in the city center while a parked trailer issued a warning that a bomb would go off in 15 minutes.
“These incredible heroes who ran into danger with uncertain results ahead were responsible for so many injuries saved,” Cooper said at a news conference at night.
The brave police officers “acted quickly and directed people to save lives – even when their own lives would be in danger.”
“They are heroes and I am grateful to them.”
Officers were responding to reports of “gunshots” in downtown Nashville when they found the trailer and heard the scary recording.
They evacuated nearby buildings and called the bomb squad – and the vehicle exploded soon after.
Three people were injured in the blast and are in stable condition, officials said.
Mortal remains were found near the crime scene, CBS News and The Associated Press reported, citing law sources.
It remains unclear whether the remains are those of someone connected to the explosion or a victim. Authorities did not say whether anyone was in the vehicle when it exploded.
Asked about reports of remains, Metro Nashville police chief John Drake said that “we found tissues that we believe could be remains”.
The “fabrics” still need to be examined, the chief told reporters.
At least 41 buildings were damaged in the bombing, which authorities said was a deliberate act. Authorities said many people were displaced.
“This morning’s attack on our community was meant to create chaos and fear in this season of hope,” said the mayor.
The authorities “will not rest until those responsible for this outrageous and cowardly attack are brought to justice,” added Cooper.
“Nashville’s spirit cannot be broken … We can rebuild and get back to normal.”
A curfew was imposed on the area affected by the explosion until 4:30 pm on Sunday.