On 27 July 1996 – Tragedy struck the 1996 Summer Olympics when a nail-laden pipe bomb exploded in Centennial Olympic Park, killing two people and injuring 111 others.
The bombing occurred during a late-night concert attended by thousands of spectators, marring what was intended to be a celebration of international unity and athletic excellence.
The bomb, hidden in a backpack under a bench, was detonated at 1:25 a.m. despite an anonymous 911 warning call stating, "There is a bomb in Centennial Park. You have 30 minutes."
Security guard Richard Jewell discovered the suspicious package and began clearing the area, a move that likely saved many lives. However, the bomb exploded before the park could be fully evacuated, causing significant casualties and chaos.
