Man arrested in California mall toilet bomb threat

by: Vivian Chow

Posted: Aug 24, 2023 / 09:20 PM PDT

Updated: Aug 25, 2023 / 08:53 PM PDT

A suspect was arrested after shoppers were evacuated for a bomb threat after a toilet was mysteriously left at the Americana at Brand shopping center in Glendale Thursday night.

Police confirmed a male suspect was taken into custody although his identity was not released.

The incident was first reported around 8 p.m., according to Glendale police. Officers found the paint-covered toilet around 50 feet from the AMC Theater at the shopping mall.

A note accompanied the toilet stating that the item may be a bomb, police said.

A dolly typically used for hotel luggage was also seen nearby, but it’s unclear whether that was used to transport the toilet.

Authorities evacuated shoppers from the scene. Sky5 video shows the toilet appears to have many images and letters scrawled all over it. The messages were not discernible from a distance.

Citizen video showed a large police presence at the scene as shoppers were escorted away from the premises. The L.A. County Sheriff’s bomb squad responded to the scene.

A police drone was seen flying over the toilet and the bomb squad unit set up an X-ray machine to examine the contents.

Following a clear x-ray reading, two bomb squad members approached the toilet and carefully dismantled it, removing the tank lid and seat. Nothing appeared to be found inside and the area was cleared.

Rick Caruso, owner of the Americana at Brand, released a statement saying in part:

It’s unknown what the suspect’s motive for the bomb threat was. The incident remains under investigation.

“Earlier this evening, a suspicious item and note were left at The Americana at Brand. As a result of our significant investment in security measures, we were able to quickly assist the GPD in identifying and locating a suspect who was then arrested.

We do not tolerate criminal activity on our properties and will take every step necessary to ensure the safety of our guests, tenants, residents and employees. We extend our gratitude to our security team and to the GPD for their quick response and action in arresting the suspect.”

Sky5 video can be seen in the player above.

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