Bomb Threat Prompts Evacuation At Laguna Beach

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Laguna Beach and nearby businesses were evacuated after a bomb threat this weekend that turned out to be a hoax, authorities said Sunday.

Shortly after 4 p.m. Saturday, the Laguna Beach Police Department received a call from an unidentified individual claiming a bomb was hidden in the area of Main Beach.

"Emergency personnel immediately initiated safety protocols, evacuating the beach and nearby businesses while establishing a secure perimeter," police said. "The Orange County Sheriff's Department Bomb Squad responded to the scene and conducted a comprehensive search of the area utilizing specialized explosive detection canines. After a thorough investigation, no explosive devices were located."

The area has since been deemed safe, police added.

The department reminded the public that "knowingly making false reports of emergencies, including bomb threats, is a criminal offense and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

Anyone with information related to Saturday's threat was urged to contact LBPD Detective Cintas at 949-715-1262.

— City News Service