Bomb Threat Prompts Evacuation At Howell Walmart

Officials later determined the threat was not credible.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 6:19am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police evidence marker on the ground, lit by a harsh direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the serious and investigative nature of a bomb threat incident.A police investigation into a bomb threat at a local Walmart highlights the need for a swift and coordinated response to ensure public safety.Marlboro Today

Authorities evacuated a Walmart in Howell, New Jersey on April 6 after a reported bomb threat, but officials later determined the threat was not credible. Police responded to the store on Route 9 South around 2 p.m. after the threat was reported through Lakewood's 911 system. Employees and customers were cleared from the building as officers from multiple agencies investigated the scene.

Why it matters

Bomb threats can cause significant disruption and fear in local communities, even when they turn out to be false alarms. This incident highlights the importance of a swift and coordinated response by law enforcement to ensure public safety and restore normal operations as quickly as possible.

The details

Following a comprehensive search, officials concluded there was no danger and the store reopened around 5:30 p.m. The investigation remains ongoing, and police are asking anyone with information to contact the Howell Township Police Department.

  • Police were dispatched around 2 p.m. on April 6 after the threat was reported.
  • The store reopened around 5:30 p.m. on April 6.

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

A supporting law enforcement agency that assisted Howell police in responding to the incident.

Marlboro Police Department

A supporting law enforcement agency that assisted Howell police in responding to the incident.

Manasquan Police Department

A supporting law enforcement agency that assisted Howell police in responding to the incident.

Southard Fire Department

The local fire department that provided support at the scene of the incident.

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What’s next

The investigation remains ongoing, and police are asking anyone with information to contact the Howell Township Police Department.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of a swift and coordinated response by law enforcement to address potential threats to public safety, even when they ultimately prove to be unfounded.