Downtown Austin breathed a collective sigh of relief as the bomb squad gave the all-clear after a scare involving a suspicious package. The find, which turned out to be harmless, was made in the lively 500 block of East Sixth Street, according to the Austin Police Department. Officers had to temporarily evacuate the area to ensure public safety before the squad determined the package posed no threat.
The incident momentarily suspended the bustling activities in the city's entertainment district, where locals and visitors are presently flocking for the SXSW festival. In an attempt to swiftly deal with potentially dangerous situations, the APD urged the public "to always be on guard and report any suspicious activities or items to authorities immediately," as reported by KXAN. "Remember, if you see something suspicious, say something by calling 911 or contacting an officer," APD said.
Final update: An investigation by the APD Bomb Squad revealed the item was not an explosive device. The area has reopened. Thank you for your cooperation. Remember, if you see something suspicious, say something by calling 911 or contacting an officer. #SpringFestATX https://t.co/pNHS4Ze3PE
— Austin Police Department (@Austin_Police) March 15, 2024
While the scare was short-lived, its impact was felt by event-goers and local businesses. The APD's Bomb Squad conducted a thorough investigation to ensure that the suspicious item was, in fact, not an explosive device. Officials did not disclose further details about the package that triggered the alarm. The package's innocent nature allowed the throngs of people to return to their festivities without further incident.
In response to the bomb scare, an additional layer of security in the form of APD's Special Response Team was deployed to the area. This move was to further strengthen the resolve to quickly secure and maintain the safety of the community, especially in the light of the ongoing SXSW events, as per details shared by CBS Austin. SXSW, taking a proactive stance, also reassured their patrons by posting that they will keep everyone updated as more information becomes available. Such "close calls" bring to the fore the ever-present need for vigilance amidst large public gatherings, a sentiment echoed by both first responders and the public at large.
