Bomb Threat Disrupts Fat Tuesday Celebrations in Silver City

Police evacuated a local brewery and blocked off streets after a reported bomb threat on the holiday.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 12:47pm

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A bomb threat called into the Silver City Police Department on Tuesday evening led to the evacuation of Little Toad Creek Brewery and Distillery and the closure of several blocks of Bullard Street in the town's downtown area. Officers responded to the initial call around 5:50 p.m. and cleared the area, but after searching the reported vehicle, they determined there was no actual bomb and reopened the street about 30 minutes later.

Why it matters

The bomb threat disrupted Fat Tuesday celebrations in Silver City, a popular annual event that draws crowds to local businesses and restaurants. The incident raised concerns about public safety and the ability of law enforcement to quickly respond to and investigate potential threats, especially during a busy holiday.

The details

According to the Silver City Police Department, officers were dispatched after a call to Grant County Central Dispatch reported that a white pickup truck parked in front of the Little Toad Creek Brewery and Distillery contained a bomb. Police evacuated the business and blocked off Bullard Street at several intersections while they investigated the threat. After searching the vehicle and finding no explosive device, the street was reopened and patrons were allowed to return to the brewery around 6:22 p.m.

  • Police were dispatched around 5:50 p.m. on Tuesday, February 19, 2026.
  • The street was reopened and the brewery was cleared around 6:22 p.m. the same evening.

The players

Silver City Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the bomb threat and evacuated the area.

Little Toad Creek Brewery and Distillery

The local business that was evacuated due to the bomb threat.

Freddie Portillo

The Silver City Police Chief who said patrols monitored the area throughout the evening and the investigation is ongoing.

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What they’re saying

“The investigation is still ongoing.”

— Freddie Portillo, Silver City Police Chief

The takeaway

This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in quickly responding to and investigating potential threats, especially during busy holiday celebrations when public safety is a top concern. It also raises questions about the protocols and resources available to police departments to address bomb threats and other security issues in their communities.