Bomb Threat at Borgata Hotel Leads to Large Police Presence and Partial Evacuation
Atlantic City’s Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa witnessed a dramatic incident late Thursday afternoon, prompting a substantial police response and partial evacuation. The situation unfolded around 3:55 p.m. when the Atlantic City Police Department (ACPD) received a distressing call from a man claiming to be inside the Borgata, armed with firearms and an explosive device.
Immediate Response and Investigation
As the threat emerged, social media buzzed with unverified rumors that the individual had barricaded himself in a hotel bathroom and was threatening to commit violence. Despite these claims circulating online, BreakingAC, a local news outlet, reported that the rumors could not be confirmed as of 7 p.m. Thursday.
ACPD officers, in coordination with Borgata security personnel, conducted a thorough search of the expansive property. This precautionary measure included evacuating parts of the complex to ensure the safety of guests and staff.
Search and Safety Measures
By late afternoon, the search had not yielded any suspects, firearms, or explosive devices. The ACPD continued their efforts to validate the credibility of the threat. In response to the potential danger, the Atlantic City Bomb Squad was deployed to the scene, and more than a dozen police vehicles were stationed outside the hotel. News helicopters hovered over the area, capturing the unfolding events.
Authorities remained discreet about the ongoing investigation, focusing on securing the property and managing traffic around the hotel by redirecting vehicles to nearby roads.
Public Reassurance and Precautionary Evacuation
To alleviate the fears of guests and the surrounding community, ACPD issued a statement later in the afternoon. “There is NO active shooter,” stated ACPD Capt. Kevin Fair, aiming to dispel the escalating panic.
The ACPD further clarified, “Out of an abundance of caution, portions of the building were briefly evacuated.” They reassured the public that patrons had been allowed back into the building after law enforcement cleared the scene. The police promised to provide more updates as the situation developed.
Borgata’s Business Operations
Despite the alarming incident, businesses within the Borgata complex remained operational, according to a report from Philadelphia TV station WPVI. The Borgata, operated by MGM Resorts International and owned by Vici Properties, boasts 2,798 rooms and has been a prominent fixture in Atlantic City since its opening on July 2, 2003.
The hotel-casino is undergoing renovations, specifically in the Water Club tower, which includes over 700 guest rooms and suites.
Conclusion
As the evening progressed, ACPD officers continued their investigation, ensuring that all safety protocols were followed. The Borgata, recognized as the leading brick-and-mortar casino in Atlantic City, managed to maintain its operations while addressing the potential threat with the seriousness it warranted. Further updates from the ACPD were anticipated to provide clarity on the situation and any developments in the investigation.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.