The Cincinnati Zoo opened late today after a threat prompted a police response before the gates opened. Investigators found no active danger, and officials determined the incident was a non-credible swatting call.
Officers were dispatched to the zoo after the threat was reported, and zoo officials kept the grounds closed until police completed their investigation. According to FOX19 NOW, Cincinnati police said the zoo was cleared to open, with doors opening around 10 a.m.
Ohio Zoos Have Faced Similar Hoax Threats
The Cincinnati incident fits a broader pattern that has disrupted zoos around the country in recent months. The Associated Press reported that recent hoax calls involving alleged bombs and active shooters have forced evacuations and closures, while searches found no explosives or real danger in the latest cases.
Madison police described a similar episode at Wisconsin’s Henry Vilas Zoo on July 2, when officers responded to a phone threat that was believed to be swatting. The zoo evacuated and closed for the rest of the day, and the Madison Police Department said zoos nationwide had experienced comparable incidents.
Ohio has been hit especially hard by the recent wave. FOX19 NOW reported that the Akron Zoo and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo were evacuated and closed after threats in May, while the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium received similar threats on two separate days.
Swatting Calls Can Create Real-World Danger
Although today's threat did not result in a dangerous discovery at the Cincinnati Zoo, the response still required police and zoo staff to treat it seriously before reopening. The Associated Press noted that the FBI considers swatting a serious crime because false emergency calls can divert public-safety resources, endanger first responders and potentially lead to federal charges.
