Radioactive tool stolen

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.