Hoax calls prompt evacuations and closures at several U.S. zoos

ABC News·May 3

Hoax calls prompt evacuations, closures at several US zoos

Hoax calls involved alleged bomb threats and even claims of active shooters.BySUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN Associated PressMay 3, 2026, 4:12 PMHoax calls involving alleged bomb threats and even claims of active shooters have prompted evacuations and closures at several zoos around the U.S. in recent days, disrupting family plans and taxing public safety resources in some cities. No explosives or real dangers have been found in the latest string of what authorities are describing as swatting incidents.The FBI considers swatting an increasing national problem. Aside from diverting resources, such calls can cost thousands of dollars per incident, endanger first responders and the public and can lead to federal charges.In the latest case, police on Sunday swept the Akron Zoo in northeast Ohio after a threat led to the evacuation of visitors. Authorities gave the all-clear, but zoo managers opted to close for the rest of the day.Just hours later, police were seen stationed outside the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as visitors were evacuated due to a threat there. Some visitors took to social media, expressing anger that they had to leave. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in central Ohio was evacuated on Saturday. Zoo president and CEO Tom Schmid told television station