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Small bomb damages Target bathroom as company faces criticism for transgender policy

Posted at 1:15 PM, Jun 09, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-09 13:13:32-04

EVANSTON, Ill. – A small bomb exploded in the women's bathroom at a Target store in Evanston on Wednesday, and officials are investigating whether it’s connected to the company’s policy allowing transgender people to use the bathroom of their choice.

Commander Joe Dugan says no one was inside the bathroom when the small explosion happened a little after 4 o'clock. It caused minor damage and no one was injured. Early indications are that a plastic bottle was used but no projectiles like nails or tacks were inside it.

Investigators are gathering evidence including examining store security camera video.

Target has been criticized recently for its stand on allowing people in the LGBT community to choose whichever bathroom they identify mostly with, either male or female, stating the company welcomes, "transgender team members and guests to use the restroom or fitting room facility that corresponds with their gender identity.”

In response, more than 1.3 million people signed an online petition promising to boycott Target.

Evanston police say they have not ruled out the explosive device planted here may somehow be connected.