Zoo Miami hit by apparent swatting threat for 4th straight day

Zoo Miami was hit by another apparent swatting threat on Monday, the fourth straight day of bomb threats or possible hoax calls at the South Florida attraction, according to officials and local media.

WTVJ reported Monday that an investigation was underway at the zoo after a possible swatting call. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office said specialized units were conducting a sweep, while authorities told the station the threats appeared to be hoaxes.

The first threat was reported on Friday, forcing the zoo to close while deputies searched the property. A second threat on Saturday led to another evacuation and sweep, and a third was reported on Sunday, according to WTVJ and statements posted by the zoo.

Zoo Miami said Sunday that deputies, including K-9 units already on site, swept the park after another bomb threat before issuing an all-clear. The zoo said it would reopen on Monday with enhanced security measures.

Authorities found no explosives in any of the searches, according to WTVJ and the zoo. Investigators believe the calls were swatting incidents, a term used for false reports meant to trigger a large emergency response.

WTVJ reported that visitors who returned on Monday saw a heavier law enforcement presence, including K-9 units.

Zoo Miami, operated by Miami-Dade County, is one of the largest zoos in the United States. Located in southwest Miami-Dade, it houses thousands of animals and is known as the country’s only subtropical zoo on the mainland.