Swatting Incidents Lead to Evacuations and Closures at U.S. Zoos, Raising Safety Concerns
Recent swatting incidents have led to evacuations and closures at several zoos across the United States, including those in Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Florida, and Arizona. These hoax calls, which falsely report bomb threats or active shooters, have disrupted family plans and strained public safety resources. The FBI has identified swatting as a growing national issue, noting that such incidents can cost thousands of dollars, endanger first responders and the public, and result in federal charges. In Ohio, the Akron Zoo and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo were evacuated following threats, with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium also affected. Zoo officials have been conducting safety drills to prepare for such emergencies. The FBI has logged thousands of swatting incidents since 2023, targeting schools, public institutions, and celebrities. 
