BOSTON

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The state police bomb squad was called to an East Bridgewater bank Tuesday after a suspicious package was left at the counter.

The package was left at the East Bridgewater Savings Bank on Route 18 shortly before at about 9:45 a.m.

East Bridgewater Police Department Chief John Cowan said that a man entered the bank, demanded money, fled the area and left a bag that contained a box at the bank counter.

"A white male entered the bank, approximately 5 feet 10 inches, 175 pounds," Cowan said. "(He was) carrying a white shopping bag, walked up to the teller, handed her a note. There was an exchange of money. We don't know the amount yet. The shopping bag was left at the counter."

The area was cordoned off as a precaution, and a few schools in the area were placed in "safe" mode. The Plymouth County Sheriff's Department sent out an emergency alert phone call to residents in the area.

"All employees have been evacuated and are safe. Traffic is now detouring around the center. The schools have been notified," Cowan said in his message.