Crime & Safety
Bomb Threat At Smithsonian National Zoo Prompts Evacuation
The zoo was evacuated as a precaution Tuesday, but a preliminary sweep found no explosive devices, police said.
WASHINGTON, DC — Authorities investigated a reported bomb threat at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, according to police.
In a statement posted on social media, the Metropolitan Police Department said authorities evacuated all staff and visitors at the zoo as a precaution. A preliminary sweep of the zoo found no bomb or hazardous materials, police said around 1:45 p.m.
Zoo officials also confirmed the closure in a statement. Later Tuesday, officials said the zoo would remain closed Tuesday and reopen Wednesday.
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The Zoo is temporarily closed due to a bomb threat. Reopening information will be posted when it becomes available. All other Smithsonian museums are open. Out of an abundance of caution, staff and visitors have been evacuated as the Metropolitan Police Department investigates.
— National Zoo (@NationalZoo) August 29, 2023
Police closed the 2900-3100 blocks of Connecticut Avenue Northwest while authorities investigated.
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