Police Investigate Bomb Threat at Home of Pope's Brother After Trump Criticism

The incident occurred days after President Trump's scathing comments about Pope Leo XIV's leadership.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 6:35pm

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A bomb threat was reported at the Illinois home of Pope Leo XIV's brother this week, prompting a police response and investigation. The threat came just days after President Donald Trump criticized the Pope, calling him 'weak on crime and terrible for foreign policy.' No injuries were reported, and the threat was deemed unsubstantiated after a thorough search. The incident remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the origin of the report.

Why it matters

The bomb threat at the Pope's brother's home highlights the ongoing tensions between the Catholic Church and the Trump administration, which have escalated in recent months over the President's criticism of Pope Leo XIV's leadership. This incident raises concerns about the safety of religious leaders and their families, as well as the potential for politically-motivated threats and attacks.

The details

According to the New Lenox Police Department, authorities responded to a private residence on Wednesday, April 15, at 6:29 p.m. after receiving a report of a bomb threat. Officers established a secure perimeter and surrounding homes were evacuated as a precaution. Specialized units, including a K9 explosive detection team, assisted in the investigation. After a careful examination and thorough search, investigators determined that the threat was 'unsubstantiated.' No injuries were reported, and residents were allowed to safely return to their homes.

  • The bomb threat occurred on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 6:29 p.m.
  • The threat came just days after President Trump's critical comments about Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Pope Leo XIV

The current leader of the Catholic Church, who has been the subject of criticism from President Trump.

President Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who has publicly criticized Pope Leo XIV's leadership.

New Lenox Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to and investigated the bomb threat at the home of Pope Leo XIV's brother.

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What they’re saying

“'We all deserve better, and we all can speak up and demand better. The job of President requires composure, compassion, and the ability not to react to anything and everything you do not like. We deserve better!'”

— Maria Shriver, Journalist and Activist

“'When it comes to the disagreements with the Vatican, we're going to have disagreements from time to time. [The Pope] should stick to matters of morality.'”

— JD Vance, Vice President

What’s next

The New Lenox Police Department stated that the incident remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the origin of the bomb threat report. Making false reports of this nature is a serious offense that may result in criminal charges.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the Catholic Church, as well as the potential risks and threats faced by religious leaders and their families. It underscores the need for political leaders to exercise restraint and civility, even in the face of disagreements, in order to maintain the safety and security of all citizens.