Authorities say a phone threat over a missing package led to a full lockdown at a St. Louis post office earlier this month, with roughly 75 employees sheltering inside while postal police secured the building.
According to court documents, a man called the post office on the 2900 block of Meramec on June 2 and said he would “shoot up” the building. Postal police responded by locking down the facility, and local investigators later identified and arrested the suspect.
As reported by First Alert 4, court records name the suspect as 33-year-old Tyrone Walker, who is charged with one count of first-degree terrorist threat. Officers were called after an employee reported that Walker phoned in the threat while complaining about a lost package. The worker who answered the call was “concerned and frightened,” according to the records.
Postal police put the building under lockdown, and Walker was arrested on Thursday. The court documents state that after waiving his Miranda rights, he admitted to making the threat. Records also indicate Walker was on probation in a separate case at the time.
What the charge means
Under the Revised Statutes of Missouri, making a terrorist threat in the first degree is a class D felony. The law covers communications meant to frighten ten or more people or to force the evacuation of an inhabitable structure. A conviction can bring prison time and other penalties if prosecutors prove the defendant acted knowingly and with the required intent.
Postal inspectors and safety steps
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is responsible for investigating credible threats involving the mail. The agency urges the public to report suspicious activity through its online portal or by calling 1-877-876-2455. Postal inspectors work alongside local law enforcement to secure facilities and determine whether federal involvement or additional charges are appropriate. In situations involving immediate danger, the agency directs people to call 911.
What happens next
Walker now faces the felony terrorist threat charge in local court. Prosecutors will decide whether to pursue any additional counts or sentencing enhancements based on the ongoing investigation and his probation status. The First Alert 4 coverage, which cites court records, did not list a bail amount or an upcoming court date.
