April 19
At 8:47 a.m. this morning, the Louisville Zoo received a bomb threat and an “all-clear” was issued from the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) at 10:45 a.m. Zoo officials took immediate action to ensure the safety of staff, walking club members and contractors already in the Zoo. The Zoo had not opened to the public at that time. All persons were evacuated from the grounds by Zoo staff and LMPD took over the investigation and secured the premises. School groups attending the Zoo today were contacted to reschedule field trips for another day.
Louisville Zoo officials made the decision to reopen the Zoo at noon today.
Director Dan Maloney said, “Our top priority is the safety of our guests, staff and animals. We are relieved that the Zoo was cleared, and we were able to reopen. We’re grateful to the LMPD, especially the 6th Division under Major Vance, for their speedy response and for always being such good friends of the Zoo.”