After receiving a bomb threat, a tense morning at an H-E-B store in Texas left customers stunned and prompted authorities to act quickly.#Texas #News #AustinTX #Crime
Austin, TexasAfter a quick evacuation due to a bomb threat, customers at an H-E-B supermarket in Austin, Texas, were greeted with terror on Friday morning. Although tense moments occurred and a suspect was arrested, authorities eventually concluded there was no real danger.
Police Respond to Bomb Threat at H-E-B
A bomb threat at the H-E-B grocery store, situated at 7301 North FM 620 Road, was reported to the Austin Police Department by 911 just after 8 a.m. Cpl. Jose Mendez reported that the suspect ordered an evacuation and stated that his car had an explosive device.
As soon as they arrived, authorities cleared the area and blocked off the car to secure the scene. While authorities looked into the matter, the business and the surrounding areas were evacuated as a precaution.
EOD Unit Finds No Explosive Device
To examine the vehicle, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) crew was sent to the location. After conducting a thorough check, the squad concluded that there was no explosive.
Mendez stated during a press conference that the car was seized for additional inspection after the all-clear was eventually granted.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Gerard Hayes, 44, was taken into custody by police at another place. He was arrested and sent to the Travis County Jail, where he is being held on a felony charge of threatening to commit terrorism.
Hayes was implicated in an unidentified incident two days earlier, according to authorities, which might have resulted in Friday’s threat.
Law police did not disclose any further details regarding the earlier incident.
Public and Store Response
Cpl. Mendez said that the management and employees of H-E-B made the choice to evacuate the store and praised them for their cooperation during the event. He also spoke to the public’s anxiety over the disruption the bomb fear had produced.
“I want to recognize the frustration and anxiety that these kinds of calls can cause,” Mendez stated. He reassured the locals that the prompt action was required to ensure public safety, notwithstanding the inconvenience.
Associated Topics: Texas Crime
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