Anonymous Bomb Threat Made To New Lenox Residence: NLPD

Residents evacuated as bomb squad investigated unsubstantiated threat

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:18am

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An extreme close-up of a police evidence marker or crime scene tape, dramatically lit by a harsh flash against a dark background, conveying the serious and investigative nature of the bomb threat incident.A stark, gritty image captures the tense aftermath of a bomb threat, underscoring the gravity of such unfounded claims.New Lenox Today

New Lenox police, bomb squad, and Will County Sheriff's police responded to a home on Sojourn Road on Wednesday evening after receiving an anonymous email threat against the residence. Nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution while authorities searched the property, but determined the threat to be unfounded with no explosive devices or hazardous materials present.

Why it matters

Bomb threats, even if ultimately unsubstantiated, can cause significant disruption and fear in local communities. This incident highlights the importance of a swift and thorough law enforcement response to ensure public safety, as well as the need to identify and hold accountable those responsible for making false threats.

The details

Police were dispatched to the Sojourn Road home after receiving an email threat sent to local law enforcement just before 6:30 pm on Wednesday. A perimeter was established, nearby residents were evacuated, and the road was closed as the Will County Sheriff's Office bomb squad and detection K9 units assisted in searching the property. After a thorough investigation, authorities determined the threat to be unsubstantiated, with no explosives or hazardous materials found.

  • Police received the email threat just before 6:30 pm on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.
  • Residents were evacuated and the road was closed as authorities responded to the scene.

The players

New Lenox Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that received the anonymous bomb threat and coordinated the response.

Will County Sheriff's Office

The county-level law enforcement agency that provided specialized bomb squad and detection K9 units to assist in the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“Making reports of this nature is a serious offense and may result in criminal charges.”

— New Lenox Police Department

What’s next

Authorities continue to investigate the origin of the unfounded threat in order to identify and charge the responsible party.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of a swift and thorough law enforcement response to bomb threats, even when they are ultimately determined to be unsubstantiated. It also highlights the need to hold those who make false threats accountable, as such actions can cause significant disruption and fear within a community.