UPDATE: A shelter-in-place order issued by the Vail Police Department at 12:50 a.m. on Friday was confirmed to be a hoax, causing alarm in the town of Vail. The order, which lasted for approximately 1.5 hours, was prompted by a non-credible bomb threat targeting the police station, as confirmed by town officials.
Police Chief Ryan Kenney and spokesperson Kris Widlak reported that the department is currently investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about the increasing frequency of such threats. “It turned out to be a non-credible bomb threat to the Vail PD,” Widlak stated.
The hoax reflects a troubling trend, as similar incidents have surged in recent years. In September 2024, multiple bomb threats were called into nearby schools, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures. Chief Kenney discussed this issue during an October meeting with the Vail Town Council, indicating the necessity for improved resources.
To address these growing security challenges, the town has allocated funds in its 2026 budget to introduce a bomb-sniffing dog to the police force. Kenney emphasized that while it can take officers over four hours to clear a large building, a trained dog can accomplish the same task in under an hour. “We continue to have incidents where having a dog that could quickly clear a large area is essential,” he remarked.
As events in Vail become increasingly complex from a security perspective, the need for rapid response tools is critical. The police department’s proactive approach aims to enhance public safety and prepare for future incidents effectively.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local authorities. Updates on the investigation will be provided as they become available.
This developing story underscores the importance of community awareness and the ongoing need for effective law enforcement measures in the face of growing threats.
