FBI calls bomb threats that closed multiple state capitols a ‘hoax’

Multiple state capitol buildings across the country have reopened after they were evacuated Wednesday morning following a series of bomb threats.

The warnings were sent via email to the offices of several secretaries of state.

In Kentucky, state legislators were evacuated one day after the start of their legislative session, according to the Lexington Herald-Leader.

It appeared that state officials received the same email that was distributed to other secretaries of state. The email reportedly stated that bombs had been placed in state capitols throughout the US, though the contents of the message have not been revealed by authorities.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a statement calling the threats a “hoax”.

The agency said it had “no information to indicate a specific and credible threat,” adding that it would be working with state and local partners to investigate the incident.

“The FBI takes hoax threats very seriously because it puts innocent people at risk,” the agency concluded. “We urge the public to remain vigilant, and report any and all suspicious activity and/or individuals to law enforcement immediately.”

In a statement posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, Gov Andy Beshear, confirmed that everyone inside the building was safe but noted that Kentucky State Police had ordered the evacuation of all individuals. He later announced that the building had reopened following a sweep of the premises.

He said the agency is “aware of similar threats made to other officers across the country.” Michigan, Connecticut, Georgia, Mississippi, Minnesota, Hawaii, Maine and Montana also issued evacuations at their state capitols or government buildings on Wednesday morning.

However, it’s not clear how many state offices received the threats. State capitols in Montana, Hawaii, Connecticut, Georgia and Mississippi had reopened by Wednesday afternoon, while Michigan’s will remain closed for the remainder of Wednesday.

Mr Beshear added: “We thank our first responders for their quick response and we will provide more updates.” Kentucky lawmakers began their legislative session on Tuesday January 2, as did lawmakers in Mississippi.

In Connecticut, the state capitol in Hartford was briefly shut for an inspection and then reopened after officials determined the building to be safe, according to the Greenwich Time. Lawmakers were not in session when the threat was received. The Connecticut Capitol is currently undergoing a $54m renovation project.

The newspaper reported that the state is working with federal partners to investigate the matter.