Police Investigate Social Media Threat Against Festival

NEW HAVEN, CT — Police are investigating after learning of a social media threat about the city's upcoming Puerto Rican Festival. A Facebook user using the name "Jake Wilson" posted a comment on a story about the festival saying that it was the reason why "we need 30 round magazines," The New Haven Register reported.

Police Chief Otoniel Reyes said in a statement, “I am aware of the comment that was posted on social media referencing the Puerto Rican Festival on Saturday and have launched a full investigation. We are working closely with our Federal, State and local partners, as we do for all major events, and have not identified any threat to the event. I encourage everyone to come out with their families to enjoy Saturday’s festivities on the New Haven Green. The NHPD looks forward to sharing in the celebration and will be working alongside our partners to ensure everyone at the event has a safe and enjoyable experience.”

A festival organizer said Thursday that police told him the threat was not credible. The festival is expected to go on as planned, The Register reported.