Laurus nobilis (bay laurel) bears black berries. So what you have found is not bay. If you can photograph it you could post it on the Name that Plant forum and someone will probably be able to identify it for you.

Here is a link that might be useful: Bay berrries

There are many species of laurels, and the only edible one is Laurus nobilis. All others are poisonous. In America, it will be extremely rare to find L. nobilis in the wild. So leave what you've found well alone!

Here is a link that might be useful: pix of L. nobilis

Thank you for your prompt responses! I am send photos of the leaves and seed pod to Name That Plant Forum. I agree that this is not like the photos in the link you sent to me.