NC warns radioactive material stolen in Buxton

BUXTON, N.C. -- North Carolina officials said a device that contains a radioactive material was stolen last week and could pose a health risk to residents of the Outer Banks. The North Carolina Radiation Protection Section said Tuesday there would be a problem if someone broke open the sealed, stainless-steel capsule containing radioactive cobalt 57. The device measures lead in painted surfaces and looks like a large, pistol-grip garden hose sprayer attachment. It's owned by Matrix Health and Safety and was stolen from a a blue 2000 Chevy Silverado in Buxton on Friday. The company is offering a reward for the return of the sealed device. State officials say anyone finding the device should not touch or move it, but report it to the Hyde County Sheriff's Department. (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)