A bomb threat briefly turned a Saturday visit to the El Paso Zoo into an unexpected evacuation, but police later cleared the grounds and allowed guests to return after finding no explosives or suspicious devices.
Police Sweep Zoo After Afternoon Threat
El Paso police responded to a report of a bomb threat at about 1:45 PM Saturday and evacuated the zoo as a precaution, moving visitors and staff into the nearby County Coliseum, according to KVIA. After bomb technicians checked exhibits and buildings, officers reported finding nothing of concern, and normal operations resumed.
El Paso Police: Zoo Cleared, Cars Can Be Retrieved
In a Facebook reel, El Paso Police Department public information officer Ofc. Adrian Cisneros said the zoo had been cleared and confirmed that guests could retrieve vehicles left in the zoo parking lot. The department noted the parking lot would remain open until midnight while investigators continued to follow up on leads.
Bomb Threat Tied To Wave Of National Hoax Calls
The incident in El Paso comes amid a recent string of hoax "swatting" threats that have triggered evacuations at zoos across the country, the Associated Press reported. Law enforcement officials warn that such false reports can endanger the public, pull critical emergency resources away from real calls and may result in criminal charges.
What Visitors Need To Know
Police urged anyone with information about the caller to contact local authorities, and the department lists additional public safety contact numbers on its website, according to El Paso Police Department. For questions about tickets, hours, or refunds, the zoo posts visitor information and contact details on its website, per the El Paso Zoo.
Investigators said the probe remains active and that more details will be released as they become available. Zoo staff reported that regular operations are back on track and thanked guests for their patience during the disruption.
