JACKSON, Ohio — A bomb threat at the Jackson Walmart prompted a full evacuation and a multi-agency response on Wednesday afternoon before investigators determined the threat was unfounded.
Jackson Police Department officers responded to the store at 3:42 p.m. after an unknown male caller contacted Walmart from an anonymous number and claimed he had placed multiple pipe bombs throughout the store. The caller stated the devices would detonate within 15 minutes.
Officers evacuated and secured the area while additional assistance was requested from multiple agencies.
The Columbus Fire Department Bomb Squad responded to the scene along with CFD Medic 3. The State Fire Marshal’s Office also responded with a K-9 unit. Jackson Police, the bomb squad, and the K-9 unit conducted a thorough search of the Walmart property and found no explosive devices or hazardous materials.
The Jackson Fire Department, Jackson County EMS, Bloomfield Township Fire Department, Liberty Township Fire Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol all assisted on scene.
The threat has been determined to be unfounded. No ongoing threat to the public exists, and normal operations have resumed at the store.
The investigation remains open. Jackson police noted that making false statements is a serious criminal offense.