Grand Island Police Department -

Grand Island, Neb. — The Grand Island Police Department investigated a reported threat at the Grand Island Casino on Sunday, January 11 that was ultimately determined to be a swatting call.

At approximately 2:13 p.m., GIPD received a report that a caller had contacted the casino claiming multiple bombs were located in specific areas of the facility. Officers responded immediately and began an investigation. Through coordination with casino security, officers determined the call was false. No explosive devices or firearms were located. Casino security video and on-site verification helped confirm the claims made during the call were unfounded.

Investigators determined the caller used a third-party system to spoof a phone number. As a precaution, GIPD cleared the Heartland Events Center and adjoining facilities while the investigation was conducted.

There is no active risk to the public. The Grand Island Police Department takes all reported threats seriously and will continue to investigate incidents of swatting, which divert emergency resources and can place the public and first responders at risk. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Grand Island Police Department.