Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and Akron Zoo Evacuated Following Threats

AKRON, Ohio — Two Northeast Ohio zoos were evacuated Sunday after receiving separate bomb and active shooter threats, the latest in a wave of so-called "swatting" incidents targeting zoos across the United States.

The Akron Zoo and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo both cleared their grounds and worked with local law enforcement after receiving threats that officials say mirror a coordinated national pattern.

Akron Zoo

At approximately 10:50 a.m. Sunday, the Akron Zoo received a bomb and active shooter threat. All guests and staff were immediately evacuated, and police conducted a comprehensive sweep of the facility.

Nothing suspicious was found, and no injuries were reported.

"APD was able to determine the threat was false and the Akron Zoo is safe," the zoo stated in a news release.

Zoo spokesperson Elena Bell said the incident, while alarming, is part of a broader trend. "This is not a regular occurrence here," Bell said. "However, this is a threat that has been made at many other zoos across the country over the last few days, and it was consistent with those threats as well." She added that the zoo remains "a safe place for people to come and return."

The Akron Zoo closed for the remainder of Sunday and reopened to the public Monday, May 4. Guests who held tickets for Sunday, May 3 are encouraged to contact the zoo for rescheduling or refund options.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

At approximately 1:40 p.m. Sunday, Cleveland Metroparks confirmed that its zoo had received a threat "similar to those reported at other zoos across the country." The facility was evacuated as a precautionary measure.

"We are working closely with local authorities and will provide updates as more information becomes available," said Jacqueline Gerling, Director of Communications for Cleveland Metroparks.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo also closed for the remainder of Sunday and reopened Monday, May 4.

A National Pattern

The incidents are part of a growing string of threats targeting zoological facilities nationwide. In recent days, similar threats were reported at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio, the Toledo Zoo, the Louisville Zoo, and Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Authorities have described the incidents as "swatting" — the act of making false emergency reports to provoke a large law enforcement response.