An industrial radiography camera containing radioactive material was stolen from a pickup truck parked at the Sleep Inn motel on Heartland Drive in Kernersville, North Carolina.

The theft was discovered the following day, prompting state health officials to issue an alert due to potential public health risks.

The stolen device is a SPEC-150 Industrial Radiography exposure device, commonly referred to as an “IR camera.”

Such devices are used in industrial settings to inspect materials for structural integrity. They contain radioactive material that can cause physical harm if mishandled.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has advised that anyone who encounters the device should not approach or attempt to open it and should maintain a distance of at least 30 feet.

Individuals are urged to contact local law enforcement or dial 911 immediately upon locating the device.

Additionally, information can be reported to Travis Cartoski of the NCDHHS Radiation Protection Section at 919-621-4797.

Authorities are actively investigating the incident and seeking public assistance to ensure the safe recovery of the device.

The NCDHHS emphasizes the importance of public awareness due to the potential dangers associated with improper handling of radioactive materials.