Bomb Threat Briefly Closes Howell Walmart

Police determined the threat was unfounded after a search of the property.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:25pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police evidence marker or crime scene tape against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the investigation into a bomb threat.The aftermath of a bomb threat that briefly closed a Walmart store in Howell, New Jersey, exposing the gritty reality of responding to potential security incidents.Marlboro Today

A bomb threat called into the 911 center in Lakewood on Monday afternoon led to the evacuation of a Walmart store in Howell, New Jersey. Police, assisted by K-9 units from surrounding departments, searched the property but found no evidence of an actual threat, and the store was reopened around 5:30 pm.

Why it matters

Bomb threats can cause significant disruption and fear in local communities, requiring a swift response from law enforcement to ensure public safety. This incident highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness to address potential security threats, even if they ultimately prove to be unfounded.

The details

According to Howell police, the bomb threat was called into the Lakewood 911 center around 2 pm on Monday. The Walmart store located at 4900 Route 9 in Howell was immediately evacuated, and police from Howell, the Monmouth County Sheriff's Office, Marlboro, and Manasquan responded to the scene with K-9 units to search the property. The Southard Fire Department and Howell First Aid Squad also assisted. After a thorough investigation, the threat was deemed unfounded, and the store was reopened around 5:30 pm.

  • The bomb threat was called into the Lakewood 911 center around 2 pm on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • The Walmart store was evacuated immediately after the threat was received.
  • Police and emergency responders searched the property and determined the threat was unfounded.
  • The store was reopened around 5:30 pm on Monday, April 7, 2026.

The players

Howell Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the bomb threat and led the investigation.

Monmouth County Sheriff's Office

Provided K-9 units to assist Howell police in searching the Walmart property.

Marlboro Police Department

Provided K-9 units to assist Howell police in searching the Walmart property.

Manasquan Police Department

Provided K-9 units to assist Howell police in searching the Walmart property.

Southard Fire Department

Responded to the scene to provide support during the incident.

Howell First Aid Squad

Responded to the scene to provide medical support during the incident.

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What they’re saying

“The investigation is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Howell police at 732-938-4575 or Barroqueiro can be reached at jbarroqueiro@howellpolice.org.”

— Howell Detective Sgt. John Barroqueiro

What’s next

Howell police are continuing to investigate the source of the bomb threat and are asking anyone with information to come forward.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in responding to potential security threats, even when they ultimately prove to be unfounded. The swift and coordinated response from local law enforcement and emergency services helped to ensure public safety and minimize disruption to the community.