False Bomb Threat Targets Home of Pope Leo's Brother

Illinois police respond to hoax call, find no explosives and no injuries

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:35pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a small, metallic object against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the investigation into a false bomb threat.A false bomb threat targeting the home of the Pope's brother exposes the serious consequences of making such malicious reports.New Lenox Today

Police in New Lenox, Illinois responded to a reported bomb threat at the private residence of one of Pope Leo XIV's brothers on Wednesday evening. After securing the area and bringing in specialized units, authorities determined the threat was false and no explosives were found. The incident remains under investigation as officials work to identify the origin of the hoax call.

Why it matters

Threats of this nature, even if ultimately deemed hoaxes, can cause significant disruption and fear in local communities. Law enforcement takes these types of calls extremely seriously, as they divert critical resources and personnel away from other public safety priorities. Identifying and prosecuting those responsible for false reports is important to deter future incidents.

The details

According to the New Lenox Police Department, officers received the bomb threat call at 6:29 p.m. on Wednesday. They immediately responded, established a secure perimeter, and evacuated nearby homes as a precaution. Specialized units, including a bomb-sniffing K9 from the Will County Sheriff's Office, were brought in to assist with the investigation. After a thorough search, no explosives were found and there were no injuries reported.

  • Police received the bomb threat call at 6:29 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.

The players

New Lenox Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to and investigated the false bomb threat.

Will County Sheriff's Office

Provided specialized bomb-sniffing K9 units to assist the New Lenox Police Department in searching the residence.

Pope Leo XIV

The current Pope of the Catholic Church, whose brother's home was the target of the false bomb threat.

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What they’re saying

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

— New Lenox Police Department

What’s next

The New Lenox Police Department is continuing its investigation to determine the origin of the false bomb threat and identify the person or persons responsible. Authorities have encouraged anyone with information related to the incident to contact the police department or submit an anonymous tip.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the serious consequences of making false reports to law enforcement, which can divert critical resources and sow fear in local communities. While no explosives or injuries resulted from this particular hoax, authorities are committed to identifying and prosecuting those responsible in order to deter future such threats.