Grand Island Casino Bomb Threat Turns Out to Be Fake

Police in Grand Island looked into what seemed like a big threat at the Grand Island Casino Resort on Sunday afternoon, but found out the scary call was not real. Cops say this event, which for a short time made people leave the building and led to a careful security check, was a classic example of “swatting.” This is when someone gives fake emergency information to make a lot of police show up.

Swatting Call at Grand Island Casino Triggers Full Security Sweep

Someone phoned the casino just after 2 p.m. on January 11. The caller claimed they had hidden several bombs throughout the property. Police hurried to the location while casino staff helped with safety procedures. To be safe, security cleared out the Heartland Events Center and buildings nearby. This allowed investigators to work without putting guests or employees at risk, reported KSNB-TV.

Law enforcement searched the areas mentioned in the report, widened their hunt to other parts of the casino complex, and reviewed security footage. After these checks, detectives found no devices, weapons, or signs that the threat was real. Officials later said the caller seemed to have used a service to hide their phone number, making it harder to find the source.

Even though the event ended without anyone getting hurt or the casino having to stop work, police stressed that these fake calls put a strain on emergency services and can slow down help for real emergencies. The department said they have to treat every threat as if it is real even when early clues suggest it is a prank.

City to Vote on Long-Term Police Plan for Grand Island Casino

The casino scare happened just as the owners wanted a more official deal with the city for police at the site. Elite Casino Resorts runs the Grand Island venue with a local farm group. They have asked the city to approve a contract letting cops work extra shifts at the resort in uniform. The casino would pay for this, and the deal would spell out how to pay back costs, cover liability, and set expectations for both sides.

City leaders will vote on this plan this week. If it passes, the deal will last five years and give officers the choice to work more hours at the casino when they can. City workers have already said they think it should be approved.

The Grand Island Casino Resort boasts a complete gaming floor, hotel rooms, eateries, and spots for shows. The people running it say having cops around would help keep things safe for visitors and staff. The police are still looking into where Sunday’s fake emergency call came from. They are asking anyone who knows something to speak up.