Threat at Boston University Determined to be Hoax

Around 8:30 this morning, Boston University Police received a phone call from a man who claimed to be in possession of firearms and explosives and that he was holding people hostage in the university’s library. He also claimed that he had shot someone. Boston University Police responded to the scene within minutes and was later joined by other state and city wide agencies including Boston Police, Massachusetts State Police, Boston Fire Department, and EMTs. Officers evacuated the building and the surrounding area while university staff released a campus-wide alert that warned students and faculty to avoid the area. After an extensive sweep of the building, officers determined that the building was clear and there were no signs of a threat. After thorough investigation with the Boston Regional Intelligence Center, the threat was determined to be a hoax made by an unknown caller. The situation is still being investigated. The actions taken in the initial minutes of an emergency are critical. Although this was a hoax, this situation gave Boston University an opportunity to practice implementation of their emergency response plans. Emergency plans are essential in preventing damage, injuries, and loss of life during an emergency situation.

Taino Consulting Group specializes in emergency management, including risk and threat assessments, incident management, and emergency planning and mitigation. Find out more here.

Read more at: https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2016/11/18/authorities-investigate-potential-emergency-situation-building/R3QvWqhASCQuoPIoAhovQP/story.html

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